DJOKOVIC SO SORRY AFTER GETTING UMP

NOVAK DJOKOVIC has apologised for his behaviour in the Australian Open final.

The new world No.1 won his 17th Major at the Australian Open to close within three of Roger Federer’s record for a male player.

But the Serb yesterday admitted he was “not happy” with his reaction to two time violations when he tapped

French umpire Damien Dumusois on the foot and said: “Well done, you made yourself famous.”

Speaking in his traditional post-final venue of the Royal Botanic Gardens in Melbourne, Djokovic said: “In a professional sport, things happen that obviously you’re not proud of.

“Of course, I’m not happy that I touched the chair umpire. And I’m sorry if I offended him or anybody else.”

But seven-time Major winner Mats Wilander said: “Novak has an incredible capacity to play his best tennis when it is necessary. He never panics even when he is tired or frustrated.

“I do not see who can stop him winning at least another four Majors.”

■ ANDY MURRAY’S former coach has urged the Scot to consider sacrificing the French Open to be ready for Wimbledon and the Olympics.

Alex Corretja said the three-time Grand Slam champion should only use the claycourt season to hone his match fitness.

Murray (above) missed the Australian Open with a pelvic injury and has set no date for his return.

He underwent a second hip resurfacing operation 12 months ago and then returned to play doubles in the grass-court season.

Eurosport analyst Corretja, who worked as Murray’s clay-court coach, said: “He should use the clay-court season to get enough matches to be ready for grass.

“Maybe he should sacrifice the French Open, because it’s very demanding.”