While Novak Djokovic’s third-round win at the Australian Open isn’t particularly surprising for the 24-time Grand Slam champion, his decision to skip the customary on-court interview afterwards certainly raised eyebrows. This notable absence was due to his refusal to engage with Australia’s Channel 9, the event’s official broadcaster, until one of its commentators issues an apology for derogatory remarks he made about Djokovic and his fans.
“A couple of days ago, a well-known sports journalist from Channel 9 mocked Serbian fans and directed offensive comments at me,” Djokovic explained during a press conference following his victory over Jiri Lehecka. “Since then, he has not made a public apology, nor has Channel 9. Therefore, I have chosen not to give interviews to Channel 9.” This incident occurred during a live broadcast when broadcaster Tony Jones openly mocked a group of Serbian fans chanting Djokovic’s name, responding with comments such as, “Novak is overrated … Novak’s a has-been … Novak kick him out,” and “I am glad that they can’t hear me,” as he chanted back.
So for anyone wondering why Djokovic left abruptly, the interviewer works for the same TV (Channel 9) as this guy, Tony Jones, who disrespected him, his fans, and Serbia. He acknowledged the fans and left. pic.twitter.com/4Z46KMlOfd
— Nzeugma ❄️ (@nzeugma_) January 19, 2025
Earlier in the week, Jones faced criticism for referring to Danielle Collins as a “brat.” Djokovic again skipped the on-court interview before his quarterfinal match against No. 3 seed Carlos Alcaraz, reiterating his stance was due to the lack of an apology from Jones and Channel 9.
A few words about what happened on court. pic.twitter.com/jRof2npiwH
— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) January 19, 2025
“I have nothing against [on-court broadcaster] Jim Courier or the Australian public,” Djokovic stated. “It was very awkward for me to face the crowd today. I regret that my remarks to the audience were misconstrued as I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to further explain my position.” He also mentioned that he discussed the situation with Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley, expressing that he would accept any fines for his decision not to participate in the interviews, stating, “If you guys want to fine me for not giving an on-court interview, that’s okay, I’ll accept that ’cause I feel like this is something that needs to be done.” As of now, neither Channel 9 nor Jones has responded to Djokovic’s statements or his demand for an apology.
