By Richard Pagliaro | @TennisNow | Sunday, January 19, 2025
Photo credit: Andy Cheung/Getty
Actions speak louder than words, and Channel 9 found this out the hard way when they lost the opportunity for an on-court interview with Novak Djokovic.
The 10-time Australian Open champion chose to forgo the traditional post-match interview with tennis legend Jim Courier following his solid 6-3, 6-4, 7-6(4) victory over Jiri Lehecka in the fourth round.
More: Sinner and Cahill to Split After 2025
“Thank you for joining us tonight, and for your unwavering support. I look forward to seeing you in the next round,” Djokovic addressed the enthusiastic crowd at Rod Laver Arena, before returning the microphone to Courier and stepping away to sign autographs as he exited the court.
In the post-match press conference, the 37-year-old Serbian superstar revealed that he opted out of the on-court interview in protest against Channel 9’s Tony Jones, who had made mocking remarks about Serbian fans and insulted Djokovic as a “failure” and “overrated.”
While Serbian fans celebrated Djokovic’s victory with chants of “Nole! Nole!” and waved flags, Jones suggested in a mocking tone that “Novak, he’s overrated….Novak, he’s a has-been,” which was broadcast by Channel 9.
Upset by Jones’ comments—and the absence of an apology from either him or Channel 9—Djokovic indicated he would skip the interview, accept any potential fine, and stand firm on his decision.
“A couple of days ago, a well-known sports journalist working for Channel 9 here in Australia mocked Serbian fans and made deeply insulting comments about me,” Djokovic stated in Melbourne. “Since then, no public apology has been issued from him or Channel 9, and thus, I chose not to give interviews to Channel 9.”
“I harbor no ill will toward Jim Courier or the Australian public; it was just an uncomfortable situation for me on the court today. It was unfortunate that I felt compelled to respond to the crowd at that moment, but it clearly wasn’t the right time or place.”
“I will leave it up to Channel 9 to address this situation in the way they deem appropriate. That’s all.”
When someone tells us we’ve got to wait two days for @carlosalcaraz vs @DjokerNole.#AO2025 pic.twitter.com/O3vLhMAZMX
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 19, 2025
The former world No. 1 has had a discussion with AO Tournament Director Craig Tiley, informing him that he is willing to accept any fines incurred as a result of his boycott.
However, Djokovic reiterated his stance, placing the onus on Channel 9 to mend the rift.
“I wanted to ensure Craig, whom I have a wonderful relationship with, understands my position and the reasons behind it,” Djokovic stated. “If they decide to fine me for skipping the interview, that’s fine; I’m prepared to accept that, as I believe this is necessary.”
“That’s all there is to it.”
ESPN analyst Darren Cahill, who is also the coach of Jannik Sinner, expressed that Djokovic had every reason to take offense.
“I believe Tony intended to be humorous,” Cahill remarked on ESPN. “However, it was highly inappropriate. I completely understand why Novak chose to be offended by that.”
Now, as Djokovic aims to equal Roger Federer’s record by reaching his 15th AO quarterfinal, he is set to face off against reigning Roland Garros and Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz for a spot in the semifinals— a rematch of their thrilling Olympic gold medal encounter.