Channel Nine Apologizes to Djokovic Following Presenter’s Mockery Leading to Interview Boycott

Melbourne, Jan 20 (NationPress) The host broadcaster Channel Nine has formally apologized to tennis superstar Novak Djokovic following remarks made by its presenter Tony Jones, who made fun of the 24-time Grand Slam champion and his Serbian supporters during the Australian Open. This incident prompted Djokovic to skip the traditional on-court interview after his fourth-round victory on Sunday.

In his fourth-round match, Djokovic triumphed over Jiri Lehecka with scores of 6-3, 6-4, 7-6 (7-4), keeping him on course for his 100th career title and a record 25th major. However, the Serbian icon chose to forgo the standard post-match interview, stating he would not engage with the host broadcaster until he received an apology.

During Friday's live broadcast, host Jones entertained the audience by singing: "Novak, he's overrated," and continued with, "Novak's a has-been. Novak, kick him out. Boy, I'm glad they can't hear me. Anyway, let's get onto the tennis.” This comment did not sit well with Djokovic, resulting in his decision to boycott the on-court interview after his win on Sunday.

"I want to clarify why the interview did not take place on court," Djokovic stated. "A few days ago, a well-known sports journalist, who represents an official broadcaster here in Australia, mocked Serbian fans and made disparaging comments towards me. Since then, he has not issued any public apology, nor has Nine."

On Monday, Channel Nine issued an apology to Djokovic, as reported by The Guardian, stating, "Nine would like to apologize to Novak Djokovic for any offense caused by comments made during a recent live broadcast. No harm was intended towards Novak or his fans. We look forward to further showcasing his Australian Open campaign at Melbourne Park."

Earlier that morning, Jones appeared on Nine's Today show to discuss the situation publicly. He described his on-air comments as "banter" or "humour" but asserted that he had already reached out to apologize to Djokovic's team on Saturday after learning they were displeased with his comments.

“I viewed it as humour, which aligns with my usual style. Nevertheless, I was informed on Saturday morning by Tennis Australia through the Djokovic camp that they were not pleased with those remarks. Therefore, I promptly contacted them and issued an apology. I stand by that apology to Novak and regret if he felt disrespected. If I could turn back time, I realize I overstepped the mark with my last comment,” he remarked.

"I can present whatever perspective I want, but it can only be interpreted as a reference to the Covid years when he was expelled. That understandably angered Novak, which I completely comprehend," Jones shared with Nine.

Djokovic is set to face off against number three seed Carlos Alcaraz in a highly anticipated quarterfinal on Tuesday.