Novak Djokovic can understand why some may criticize Gael Monfils' no-pace pushing tactics as "unacceptable," but the world No. 1 defended Monfils as a crowd-pleasing player after his US Open semifinal victory.

Conceding Monfils got into his head making him "pissed off" at times during his 6-3, 6-2, 3-6, 6-2 victory, Djokovic said he can understand those who question the 10th-seeded Frenchman's passive-aggressive tactics.

US Open: Djokovic Downs Meek Monfils

"I thought at times that he was, you know, maybe behaving a little bit for some terms and judgments unacceptable," Djokovic said. "But, again, I guess that was part of his tactics. If he said that you have to believe him, I guess.

"He was 5-Love down with his game and he mixed it up. It seemed like it was a bit of a lack of effort, but then he started playing great. He started playing aggressive. He took chances. He came to the net. In the end of the day, I thought it was a good match. We played a four-set match. I think the crowd enjoyed it in the end."

Eleven years after Djokovic himself called the trainer for massage during the final set of grueling five-set US Open conquest of Monfils, the top-seeded Serbian raised his record to 13-0 against the free-spirited Frenchman.

Djokovic praised Monfils for the genuine joy he can bring to the court.

"He's one of the most charismatic guys on the tour," Djokovic said of Monfils. "He brings a full display of athleticism. Just different variety in the game. He's an all-round player.

"In the end of the day, he enjoys playing in the big stage. Enjoys playing tennis. And you can see that. That's why the fans love him. That's why he gets the crowd involved. You know, sometimes, as his opponent it's not easy to handle his up and downs, but he's very important asset to our sport. He brings that joy, as you said."

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