Novak Djokovic narrowly avoided disqualification at the Australian Open on Saturday, January 24, 2026, after a ball he struck in frustration nearly hit a ball kid during his third-round match against Botic van de Zandschulp. The incident occurred in the second set of the match at Rod Laver Arena, after Djokovic's backhand was ruled out. Frustrated by allowing his opponent back into the match, the Serbian hit a ball away, which flew close to the head of a ball girl stationed near the net.

Commentators were quick to react, with Colin Fleming stating, "Careful… that was almost a default. That was so close to a default". Jim Courier described the moment as "dangerous".

Djokovic, who won the match 6-3, 6-4, 7-6 (4), immediately raised his arm in apology. "I apologise for that," Djokovic said. "That was not necessary and in the heat of the moment. I was lucky there, and I'm sorry for causing any distress to the ball kid or anybody".

The incident sparked immediate discussion, drawing comparisons to the 2020 US Open where Djokovic was disqualified after hitting a line judge with a ball. Had the ball struck the ball kid, officials would have likely had no choice but to default him. Former Wimbledon champion Pat Cash told the BBC that Djokovic was "three inches from getting defaulted for sure".

Despite the controversy, Djokovic was fortunate to escape without a code violation. He acknowledged that he gets "too stressed on court". The 38-year-old made history at Melbourne Park, securing his 400th Grand Slam match win with the victory. He is now chasing an 11th Australian Open title.