Novak Djokovic reached a staggering career milestone on Saturday night, recording his 400th Grand Slam match victory with a 6-3, 6-4, 7-6(4) win over Botic van de Zandschulp. However, the historic achievement was nearly overshadowed by a flash of the "old" Nova; a moment of frustration that left him inches away from a tournament default.
Leading 6-3, 4-2, Djokovic experienced a moment of "minor turbulence." After a return from the Dutchman went long, Djokovic carelessly hooked a ball toward the net post. The ball fizzed just inches past the head of a ball girl, who managed to duck in time.
The 38-year-old is no stranger to the consequences of such actions, having been famously disqualified from the 2020 US Open for striking a line judge.
Djokovic was quick to offer a contrite explanation after the match:
"It wasn’t necessary. It was the heat of the moment."
"I was lucky there, and I’m sorry for causing any distress to the ball kid or anybody."
In a moment of candid self-reflection, Djokovic was asked what advice he would offer to his younger self. His response was characteristically blunt: “Calm down, you jerk.”
He expanded on the internal pressure that still drives; and occasionally haunts him:
Patience: "Patience is a big one. When we are younger... we want everything here and now."
Chemistry: "You have to build your character so you understand what kind of people you want around... People who can extract good vibes and energy."
Despite the emotional flare-up and a medical timeout for a foot blister in the third set, Djokovic remained clinical. He has yet to drop a set in the tournament, a critical factor for the veteran's longevity as the matches get tougher.