Novak Djokovic avoids interview on court at Australian Open after insults from journalist

Novak Djokovic wants an apology.

The 24-time Grand Slam champion walked away from a traditional on-court interview on Sunday following his fourth-round victory over Czech Jiri Lehecka at the Australian Open, citing “insulting and offensive comments” made to him. regard by a presenter from Channel 9, which broadcasts the tournament, a few days before.

“A few days ago, the famous sports journalist who works for the official Channel 9 here in Australia made fun of Serbian fans and also made insulting and offensive comments towards me,” Djokovic said during his conference post-match press conference, according to The Guardian.

“And since then, he has chosen not to make any public apology. Neither does Channel 9. As these are official channels, I have chosen not to give interviews for Channel 9.”

Djokovic, seeking his 11th Australian Open title, did not specify the journalist in question, but Channel Nine’s Tony Jones drew ire over comments made during a television segment featuring fans of the Serbian star at Melbourne Park on Friday, where Djokovic beat Czech pro Tomas. Machac in the third round.

“Novak, he’s overrated. … Novak is a has-been,” Jones sang. “Novak, kick him out. Boy, I’m glad they can’t hear me.

Although Djokovic briefly addressed the crowd on Sunday at Rod Laver Arena, where he was scheduled to speak with Jim Courier after his 6-3, 6-4, 7-6 (7-4) victory, the superstar 37 years old succeeded. he made it abundantly clear during his press conference that the rejection was not aimed at either party.

“I have nothing against Jim Courier or the Australian public. It was a very delicate situation for me to face on the pitch today. It’s unfortunate, I chose to say something to the crowd, but obviously it wasn’t the time, space or situation for me to explain what I’m doing right now,” Djokovic said , according to The Guardian. “I leave it to Channel 9 to deal with this as they see fit. That’s all.

Djokovic, who elaborated on the situation in a video shared on his X account on Sunday, said he had discussed the matter with Craig Tiley, the director of the Australian Open.

“I told him, you know, if you want to fine me for not giving an interview on the field, it’s no big deal, I’ll take it because I feel like it “It’s something that needs to be done. That’s all there is to say,” Djokovic said.

Tennis.com reported on Sunday that Channel 9 has yet to respond to Djokovic’s remarks.

Djokovic will next face Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz in the quarter-finals on Monday.