BBC refuses to apologise for commentary during Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic Wimbledon final

Commentator Andrew Castle has received a backlash after saying it was "understandable" after Djokovic smashed a racket against the net in anger.

However, the BBC has refused to apologise and insist they condoned the former world No1 for his actions.

"We’ve received complaints from people who felt our commentary favoured Novak Djokovic and/or condoned his behaviour after hitting the net post with his racket," a statement said.

“While Andrew Castle highlighted that Djokovic’s anger and frustration was 'understandable' at such a crucial point in the match, it was also made clear that this behaviour is wrong, and that Djokovic rightly received a conduct violation for it.

"Andrew also highlighted that such behaviour can be dangerous, looking back at a similar instance with Djokovic, stating; 'Disqualified at the US Open in 2020 after unintentionally hitting a line judge. That was a dangerous moment for a lot of reasons'.

It adds: "We recognise how these comments came across to some, however, and we’ve shared this with the programme team.

"Throughout the final, our team shared their analysis and praise for both players.

"They praised Alcaraz for such performances at such a young age, for the variety in his game, and Andrew did include particular praise of Alcaraz’s game too."

Nick Kyrgios was among the tennis players to criticise the BBC's coverage.

Writing during the final showdown, the Aussie said: "Whoever is the clown next to Woodbridge in that commentator box needs to just not speak -spoiling the match big time."

In the end, Djokovic missed out on the prize.

The veteran had entered the showdown as the favourite to reign supreme, having won seven titles at Wimbledon in previous years.

Djokovic started strongly and emphatically claimed the first set.

However, Alcaraz came roaring back to secure a second Grand Slam title of his career.

Djokovic was full of praise for his opponent after the match, saying: "I didn't expect him to play so well this year on grass, but he's proven he's the best player in the world.

"I haven't played a player like him ever, to be honest.

"I think people have been talking in the past 12 months or so about his game consisting of certain elements from Roger, Rafa, and myself. I would agree with that.

"He's got basically the best of all three worlds.

"He's got this Spanish bull mentality, fighting spirit and incredible defence that we've seen with Rafa [Nadal]. I think he's got some nice sliding backhands, some similarities with my backhands.

"He is a complete player."

As for Alcaraz, the 20-year-old was delighted with Djokovic's comments. He said: "I really have to congratulate Novak, you inspire me so much.

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"I started playing tennis, watching you. When I was born, you were already winning tournaments! And you're in better shape than me."