Broadcaster Issues Apology After Djokovic Skips Post-Match Interview

Vegas Tennis Team
4 Min Read

MELBOURNE, Australia — The host broadcaster has expressed regret after Novak Djokovic opted out of his regular post-match interview following his Australian Open match on Sunday. His decision came as a response to disparaging remarks made by a network employee during the live broadcast.

Djokovic voiced his demand for an apology from Channel 9 and sports journalist Tony Jones, who labeled the celebrated 24-time Grand Slam champion as “overrated” and a “has-been” while a cheering crowd of Djokovic supporters gathered at Melbourne Park.

Although Djokovic did not mention Jones by name, he criticized a “well-known sports commentator from the official broadcaster, Channel 9” for making fun of Serbian fans and for the “insulting and offensive” remarks directed at him.

Determined, Djokovic stated he plans to continue avoiding interviews with that network.

“I’ll leave it up to Channel 9 to address this in their own way. That’s all I have to say,” Djokovic remarked.

On Monday, Australia’s Nine Network released a statement, extending their apologies to Djokovic for any offense caused by the comments made during the recent live segment.

“There was never any intent to offend Novak or his fans,” the statement affirmed. “We are excited to continue covering his journey at the Australian Open at Melbourne Park.”

Jones later appeared on the Today program to apologize, explaining that his remarks were intended as “banter.”

“What I thought was humor aligns with much of my work,” he commented. “However, I was informed that the Djokovic camp was not pleased whatsoever with my comments.”

“I quickly reached out to Djokovic’s team and expressed my apologies. I stand by that apology wholeheartedly,” he added.

Jones also conveyed his regret to any Serbian fans who may not have found his comments amusing.

“I genuinely feel that I’ve disappointed the Serbian fans,” he said. “This isn’t a mere attempt to escape consequences; I truly empathize with them.”

“So I can only reiterate to Novak what I communicated 48 hours ago: I sincerely apologize if he felt disrespected by my remarks.”

After defeating Jiri Lehecka in straight sets at Rod Laver Arena on Sunday, Djokovic was slated to engage with former player Jim Courier for an interview. Instead, he took control of the microphone to express his gratitude to the crowd: “Thank you all for being here tonight. I truly appreciate your presence and support. I look forward to seeing you in the next round. Thank you!”

Later during a press conference, Djokovic explained his decision to forgo the interview, emphasizing that his displeasure was directed at Jones and the broadcaster, not at Courier or his enthusiastic fans.

He also discussed the situation with Craig Tiley, the CEO of Tennis Australia.

“I wanted to clarify my stance and the rationale behind my decision,” Djokovic stated. “If the authorities decide to penalize me for skipping the on-court interview, I’m prepared to accept that because I feel this matter is significant. That’s the essence of it.”

Djokovic later took to X to reiterate the reasons for his refusal to speak, prompting a response from billionaire X owner Elon Musk, who remarked, “It’s far better to communicate directly with the public rather than filtering through the negativity of traditional media.”

In response, Djokovic tweeted back to Musk with “Indeed” followed by a raised hands emoji, signaling his agreement.

Looking ahead, Djokovic is prepared to face No. 3 seed Carlos Alcaraz in the upcoming quarterfinals on Tuesday.

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