Novak Djokovic has been heralded for making light of the incident on Friday where he was hit in the head by a water bottle by wearing a helmet to go and sign autographs the following day.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion had just defeated France star Corentin Moutet 6-3 6-1 when he went over to sign autographs.
Fans clamoured to get close to the stands, where they reached down to try and get close to Djokovic.
But an unfortunate scenario saw a loose water bottle fall out of someone's bag as they leaned over the edge to try and get Djokovic's signature.
Novak Djokovic took extra precautions after being hit by a bottle
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The item landed directly on Djokovic's head, which left him writhing on the floor in serious pain.
He was eventually helped out of the arena by security with the Italian Open later confirming the incident wasn't being investigated.
"This is not being treated as a deliberate act, but as an accident," the tournament organisers said in a statement.
"A boy was calling out to get an autograph and the bottle fell out of his bag.
"Novak has undergone the necessary checks and has already left to return to his hotel. His condition is not a cause for concern."
Djokovic was also able to make light of the incident after discovering it was an accident.
"Thank you for the messages of concern," Djokovic said.
"This was an accident and I am fine resting at the hotel with an ice pack. See you all on Sunday."
Novak Djokovic was left in serious pain after the bottle hit his head
REUTERS
And he had fans in stitches on Saturday as he returned to the event the following day to sign more autographs, this time wearing a helmet as he greeted fans.
"Today I came prepared," Djokovic posted.
It proved to be a popular move among his fan base with many lauding Djokovic for showing his funny side.
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Today I came prepared. #IBI24 pic.twitter.com/b4tRYhZ8d7
— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) May 11, 2024
One message read: "There's no one better!!! You are the absolute best!!! Never be anyone else."
Another person said: "Legendary behaviour."
A third wrote: "You should be a comedian, you would make double the money."
One other replied: "Hilarious! The best!"
