The official broadcaster has apologised after Novak Djokovic declined to take part in the customary on-court post-match interview at the Australian Open on Sunday, reports AP.
The protest came in response to remarks aired by a network employee.
Djokovic expressed that he sought an apology from Channel 9 and Tony Jones, who, during an on-air segment at Melbourne Park, referred to the 24-time Grand Slam champion as "overrated" and a "has-been." Jones also seemingly alluded to Djokovic’s 2022 deportation from Australia over his unvaccinated status, during a segment while a crowd of Serbian fans chanted in support of the player.
Without directly naming Jones, Djokovic referred to “a famous sports journalist who works for official broadcaster, Channel 9” and accused him of mocking Serbian fans and making derogatory remarks.
Djokovic stated he would refrain from engaging with the network moving forward.
“I leave it to Channel 9 to address this in the way they deem appropriate. That’s all,” he said.
Australia’s Nine Network issued a statement on Monday apologising to Djokovic for “any offense caused by comments made during a recent live broadcast.”
“No harm was intended toward Novak or his supporters,” the statement read. “We look forward to continuing coverage of his Australian Open journey at Melbourne Park.”
Appearing on the Today programme Monday, Jones apologised, explaining his comments were intended as “banter.”
“I viewed it as humour, which aligns with much of my approach,” Jones said. “That said, I’ve since been made aware that Djokovic’s team was deeply unhappy with the remarks.
“I immediately reached out to Djokovic’s camp and extended an apology. I stand by that apology to Novak.”
Jones also addressed Serbian fans, acknowledging that his comments might not have been perceived as humorous.
“I feel I’ve let down Serbian supporters,” he said. “This isn’t an attempt to escape criticism – I genuinely empathise with those fans.”
“To Novak, I repeat what I told him 48 hours ago: I sincerely apologise if he felt disrespected.”
Serbia’s Ambassador to Australia, Rade Stefanovic, criticised Jones’ remarks on Monday, describing them as “unprofessional” and not in good humour, particularly the insinuation regarding Djokovic’s deportation.
“That incident remains a sensitive issue for Serbians globally, including Australians of Serbian heritage, who were also impacted at the time,” Stefanovic told the Sydney Morning Herald, which shares the same parent company as Channel 9.
After defeating Jiri Lehecka in straight sets at Rod Laver Arena on Sunday to advance to the quarterfinals, Djokovic was anticipated to join former player Jim Courier for a televised interview. Instead, Djokovic addressed the crowd briefly: “Thank you very much for being here tonight. I appreciate your presence and the support. I’ll see you next round. Thank you very much.”
In a subsequent press conference, Djokovic began with a statement explaining his decision to forgo the interview, stressing that his frustration was directed at Jones and Channel 9, not Courier or the fans.
He revealed that he also discussed the matter with Tennis Australia CEO Craig Tiley.
“I wanted him to understand my perspective and reasons,” Djokovic said. “I told him, ‘If you feel the need to fine me for not giving an on-court interview, I accept that. I believe this was necessary.’ That’s all there is to it.”
Djokovic later reiterated his stance on X (formerly Twitter), prompting a response from platform owner Elon Musk, who remarked, “It’s way better just to talk to the public directly than go through the negativity filter of legacy media.” Djokovic replied with “Indeed” and a raised hands emoji.
Djokovic is set to face third-seeded Carlos Alcaraz in the quarterfinals on Tuesday.
Source: AP
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