By Richard Pagliaro | @Tennis_Now | Friday, September 8, 2023

NEW YORK—Novak Djokovic dialed up post-match mockery at this time.

Moments after dismissing Ben Shelton 6-3, 6-2, 7-6(4) to achieve his record-tying tenth US Open ultimate, Djokovic emphatically hung up on Shelton mimicking the 20-year-old American's trademark celebration of hanging up a telephone on opponents.

Murray: Major Runs May Be Done

The sarcastic Djokovic gesture instantly went viral although Shelton himself stated he did not see it till after he was off court docket.

The 23-time Grand Slam champion stated it was a tribute celebration.

"And I just love Ben's celebration," Djokovic stated. "I thought it was very original, and I copied him. I stole his celebration."

Shelton smiled off Djokovic's jab in his post-match presser saying "imitation is the sincerest form of flattery."

"I didn't see it until after the match," Shelton stated. "You know, I don't like when I'm on social media and I see people telling me how I can celebrate or can't celebrate. You know, I think if you win the match, you deserve to do whatever you want.

"You know, as a child rising up, I all the time realized that imitation is the sincerest type of flattery, in order that's all I've to say about that."

us once they name about our automotive’s prolonged guarantee.pic.twitter.com/M39UlKWfxu

— US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 8, 2023

Novak Djokovic hangs up the telephone on Ben. 🥶 pic.twitter.com/AvMD9kPY2N

— US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 8, 2023

Contesting simply the fifth Grand Slam event of his life, Shelton held a set level at 5-4 within the third set, however couldn't shut. Shelton stated he appears ahead to a rematch with the 23-time Grand Slam champion.

"I learned that he's a guy who can compete at the highest level, has, you know, a similar mentality to me on the court with how he wants to come after you and be aggressive and show his emotion," Shelton stated. "I think it was really cool to see that matchup for the first time. Looking forward to hopefully getting it again."

Photo credit score: Mike Stobe/Getty

Content Source: www.tennisnow.com