Controversy erupts as Novak Djokovic's team hides player box camera during Carlos Alcaraz Australian Open clash

The Australian Open 2025 quarterfinal clash on Tuesday (January 21) between Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic witnessed an early moment of controversy, even as both players had played just one game in the match. Interestingly, neither player was involved directly in the drama.

As fans might be aware already, the Australian Open this year is chock full of cameras, with players being monitored in player areas, in the tunnels on the way to the court as well as other behind-the-scenes being telecast all over the world. One such camera addition is the feed giving of a players' box during a match.

On Tuesday, Djokovic's wife Jelena, son Stefan and daughter Tara were in attendance at his box for the blockbuster clash. However, just as the camera started showing their reactions at the start of the battle, one team member of the Serb's entourage could be seen covering the camera with what appeared to be a wristband.

On social media, fans did not think that should be allowed to happen, especially if the tournament has decided beforehand that the feed will be made available to the public for all players.

"Hot take: Players box shouldn't be allowed to do this," one user thought.

"Why Novak Djokovic box hiding the camera? Should they be banned?" one fan wrote.

The decision from the 24-time Grand Slam champion's team had its defenders as well, with some insisting that it was important to protect the privacy of his young children.

"There are young kids in the box. Let them have privacy," one fan said.

"His two children being there definitely validates covering the camera," another wrote.

On the court, Alcaraz took the first set against the Serb after a close fight, winning it 6-4 with a final break of the Serb's service game.

What happened in Novak Djokovic's quarterfinal clash with Carlos Alcaraz at Australian Open?

2025 Australian Open - Day 9 - Source: Getty

After Carlos Alcaraz took the opener, Novak Djokovic bounced back by taking the second set 6-4. After that, it was one-way traffic for the Serb despite moments of brilliance from the youngster.

The third set went 6-3 to the World No. 7, who then took the fourth set 6-4 to seal victory after more than three hours of play on Rod Laver Arena. Up next, Djokovic will take on Alexander Zverev in the semifinals, with the German having beaten Tommy Paul in the quarterfinals in a four-setter of his own.