Novak Djokovic urges fans to show support for US Open line judge

Novak Djokovic has asked his fans not to abuse the line judge at the centre of his US Open disqualification.

The world number one was thrown out of the New York tournament on Sunday night after he accidentally hit lineswoman Laura Clark with a ball after striking it out of annoyance.

Clark was stood at the back of the court and was struck in the throat as Djokovic showed his frustration during his fourth-round match with Pablo Carreno Busta.

She is reportedly bruised and was heard gasping for air after the incident, but has been targeted by Djokovic’s angry fans online who accused her exaggerating her reaction.

Djokovic tweeted: “Dear #NoleFam thank you for your positive messages.. Please also remember the linesperson that was hit by the ball last night needs our community’s support too.

“She’s done nothing wrong at all. I ask you to stay especially supportive and caring to her during this time.

“From these moments, we grow stronger and we rise above. Sharing love with everyone. Europe here I come.”

Clark was not at the Flushing Meadows site on Monday.

In addition to forfeiting his entire prize money of 250,000 US dollars (approximately £190,000), Djokovic has also been fined an additional 10,000 dollars (approximately £7,000) for not attending a mandatory press conference.

Instead, the Serbian quickly left the tournament grounds and posted a carefully crafted apology on Instagram.

“I‘m extremely sorry to have caused her such stress. So unintended. So wrong.

“As for the disqualification, I need to go back within and work on my disappointment and turn this all into a lesson for my growth and evolution as a player and human being.

“I apologise to the US Open tournament and everyone associated for my behaviour. I’m very grateful to my team and family for being my rock support, and my fans for always being there with me. Thank you and I’m so sorry.”