Novak Djokovic advanced to the Australian Open quarterfinals on Sunday with a straight-sets victory over Jiří Lehecka in the fourth round of the tournament.
But Djokovic’s dominance was overshadowed by what happened when he left the court. Djokovic declined to speak to Australia’s Channel 9, the tournament’s official broadcaster in the host country, over journalist Tony Jones’ comments about the Serbian star.
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Novak Djokovic celebrates after defeating Jiri Lehecka at the Australian Open in Melbourne, Sunday, January 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Asanka Brendon Ratnayake)
Djokovic said he wanted an apology from the station and Jones without mentioning Jones by name. He said: “A famous sports journalist who works for the official broadcaster, Channel 9… made fun of Serbian fans and also made insulting and offensive comments towards me.”
Jones called Djokovic overrated and a throwaway.
He said he will continue to boycott speaking with the network.
“I’m letting Channel 9 handle this as they see fit. That’s all,” he said.
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Novak Djokovic signs autographs for fans after defeating Jiri Lehecka at the Australian Open in Melbourne, Sunday, January 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Asanka Brendon Ratnayake)
Djokovic immediately left the court after defeating Lehecka. He was expected to speak with former tennis player Jim Courier on television. He told reporters at his press conference that he was still upset with Jones and Channel 9.
The tennis star said he also spoke to Tennis Australia chief executive Craig Tiley.
“I just wanted to make sure he knew where I stood and the reasons behind it,” she said. “So I told him, ‘If you want to fine me for not giving an on-court interview, that’s fine.’ I’ll take it because I feel like this is something that needs to be done.”
Billionaire X owner Elon Musk weighed in on the situation in a social media post.
“It is much better to speak directly to the public than to go through the negativity filter of traditional media,” Musk wrote.
Novak Djokovic is congratulated by Jiri Lehecka after his fourth round match at the Australian Open in Melbourne, Sunday, January 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Mark Baker)
Djokovic replied: “Indeed.”
