Rowdy Australian Open Crowds Disrupt Matches and Fuel Controversy

Unruly fan behavior at John Cain Arena and other courts challenges players but also energizes some, sparking debate about tennis etiquette.

Jack Draper overcame a hostile Australian crowd to defeat Thanasi Kokkinakis in a marathon five-set match lasting over four hours at John Cain Arena.
Draper credited the rowdy atmosphere, including jeers and heckling, with giving him energy, drawing inspiration from Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou's composure under similar circumstances.
Chair umpire Marijana Veljovic had to repeatedly intervene to quiet the crowd, urging fans not to disrupt serves with noise and taunts.
Unprecedented disruptions included the relocation of a match between Felix Auger-Aliassime and Alejandro Davidovich Fokina due to excessive noise from an adjacent court.
The intense and often disrespectful fan behavior has reignited discussions about acceptable conduct at tennis events, particularly at venues known for their lively atmospheres like John Cain Arena.