Novak Djokovic sure seemed like someone ready to move on from the latest non-tennis issue he’s been involved in during a grand slam tournament.

Criticised after his previous match for comments about clashes in northern Kosovo between ethnic Serbs and NATO-led peacekeepers, the 22-time major champion stayed away from political matters on Wednesday night.

When his 7-6 (2), 6-0, 6-3 victory over Marton Fucsovics in the second round of the French Open ended, Djokovic, a 36-year-old from Serbia, wrote on the lens of a TV camera — a custom at more and more tennis tournaments — and kept it simple, with an autograph and a smileyface.

It was quite different from what happened after his win on Monday, when Djokovic drew attention for writing in Serbian, “Kosovo is the heart of Serbia. Stop the violence,” and then speaking out about the matter at a news conference with reporters from his home country.

That drew rebukes from a member of France’s government, French Open tournament director Amelie Mauresmo and the Kosovo tennis federation.

Sports minister Amelie Oudea-Castera warned Djokovic on Wednesday not to wade into such international issues again at Roland Garros.

Asked about Oudea-Castera and Mauresmo, Djokovic responded: “I have no more comment on that. I said what I needed to say.”

As for the underlying topic, Djokovic said: “Of course, I’m aware that a lot of people would disagree, but it is what it is. It’s something that I stand for. So that’s all.”

“Drama-free grand slam — I don’t think it can happen for me,” Djokovic said Wednesday. “You know, I guess that drives me, as well.”

Federer's new role

London: After a career spent navigating the toughest opponents on the court, 20-time major winner Roger Federer will now help commuters navigate the open road, as the newest voice of driving app Waze.

The retired, polyglottic tennis star can offer directions in English, French, or German, and is the first person to record custom navigation in three different languages, the navigation app said on Wednesday.

The 41-year-old Swiss offers a variety of motivational messages to drivers, on top of basic directions.

“It’s drive time. I can feel the adrenaline kicking in already,” Federer says in one recording.

He begins another commute by telling drivers: “Time to ride! Trust your ability. I’m ready to coach you along the way.”

Reuters