Novak Djokovic reveals why he really copied 'unsportsmanlike' Ben Shelton at US Open

Throughout the tournament in New York, Shelton had been 'putting the phone down' after his matches.

And Djokovic took it upon himself to replicate this, after ending the then 20-year-old's best run at a major tournament.

This was received by a cold handshake from Shelton, who told press after the match that 'imitation is the sincerest form of flattery'.

"I think if you win the match, you deserve to do whatever you want," said Shelton. "You know, as a kid growing up, I always learned that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, so that's all I have to say about that."

At the time Djokovic brushed off any disapproval of Shelton, but has now revealed why he really imitated his opponent.

“This is my reaction to a provocation that came from the other side, it was a reaction against him," revealed Djokovic. "He did not behave properly, with respect, on court, and before the match.

“I’m never going to make fun of someone if they don’t do something first. Every time I lose I always give my opponent a hug, I congratulate him, I respect him and his team. If anyone one places himself in the ‘unsportsmanlike zone’, I react.”

This rivalry could be reignited at the Australian Open, with a fourth round match on the cards if both Djokovic and Shelton were to make it.