NOVAK DJOKOVIC’s ninth Australian Open win was marred by controversy as a refugee protest halted play.
And there was further disruption as the mention of coronavirus vaccines during the post-match ceremony was met with boos from the crowd.
Djokovic enjoyed a comfortable three-set victory against Daniil Medvedev in the Rod Laver Arena.
But not before a protest stopped play.
During the second set, two spectators were heard shouting in the stands and the umpire was forced to pause proceedings.
The protesters were heard yelling ‘free the refugees’ before they were escorted away by security.
One was wearing a T-shirt that read ‘free them all’ on the front and ‘end systematic racism’ on the back.
More controversy came after Djokovic sealed the win, when some spectators booed Tennis Australia executive Jayne Hrdlicka for mentioning vaccines.
She said: “It’s been a time of deep loss and extraordinary sacrifice for everyone.
“With vaccinations on the way, rolling out in many countries around the world, it’s now a time for optimism and hope for the future.”
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Jayne Hrdlicka being overwhelmingly booed at the mention of the #COVIDvax at the #AO2021
pic.twitter.com/fikirj8jc4
— Carol Alice (@thecarolalice) February 21, 2021
Hrdlicka managed to finish her speech amidst the boos, telling the crowd: “You are a very opinionated group of people.”
The controversy marks the end of a difficult Australian Open.
Players were forced to quarantine for two weeks in hotels ahead of the tournament, with Djokovic leading the complaints.
Fans were then booted out of the Serb’s match with Taylor Fritz due to a Covid outbreak.
They were allowed back into Melbourne Park after the city’s five-day lockdown ended.
And before the final Djokovic was slammed for not wearing a mask as he entered the court, despite Medvedev doing so.
