Novak Djokovic refused an on-court interview with Channel Nine after his win at the Australian Open on Sunday night because he was aggrieved by comments made by the host broadcaster’s sports anchor Tony Jones he deemed to be “insulting and offensive”.
The 10-times Australian Open champion chose not to speak on court to Jim Courier after booking his spot in the quarter-finals.
Tony Jones and Novak Djokovic.Credit: The Age
“A couple of days ago a famous sports journalist who works for official broadcaster Channel Nine here in Australia made a mockery of Serbian fans, and also made insulting and offensive comments towards me,” Djokovic said.
“Since then he chose not to issue an official public apology. Neither did Channel Nine.”
Djokovic told media he would continue his boycott until he gets an apology.
His action stemmed from footage of presenter Jones doing a cross from Melbourne Park with flag-waving supporters in the background.
The footage has been circulating widely on social media.
In it, Jones references the Serbians fans, but also makes several references about Djokovic, including “Novak, kick him out” – in reference to the former world No.1’s deportation from Australia three years ago.
“The Novak Djokovic fans there in full voice,” Jones says in the video.
“The chants are quite extraordinary.”
He then chants the following: “Novak, he’s overrated. “Novak’s a has-been … Novak, kick him out.
“Boy, I’m glad they can’t hear me.”
Djokovic insisted that his complaint was only about the behaviour of Jones.
“I have nothing against Jim Courier, neither the Australian public. And it was a very awkward situation for me to face the court today,” he said.
Nine is the owner of this masthead and Nine has been contacted for comment.
Tony Jones has also been contacted for comment.
Tennis Australia was contacted for comment.
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