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Novak Djokovic wants an apology.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion opted out of a traditional on-court interview Sunday following his fourth-round win over Czechia’s Jiri Lehecka at the Australian Open, citing “insulting and offensive comments” made toward him by a presenter for Channel 9, which broadcasts the tournament, days prior.
“Couple days ago the famous sports journalist who works for official broadcaster Channel 9 here in Australia made a mockery of Serbian fans and also made insulting and offensive comments towards me,” Djokovic said in his post-match press conference, according to The Guardian.
“And since then, he chose not to issue any public apology. Neither did Channel 9. So since they’re official broadcasters, I chose not to give interviews for Channel 9.”
Djokovic, chasing 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 TV segment that featured fans of the Serbian star at Melbourne Park on Friday, where Djokovic defeated Czech pro Tomas Machac in the third round.
“Novak, he’s overrated. … Novak’s a has-been,” Jones sang. “Novak, kick him out. Boy, I’m glad they can’t hear me.”
Although Djokovic briefly addressed the crowd Sunday at Rod Laver Arena, where he was expected to talk to Jim Courier after his 6-3, 6-4, 7-6 (7-4) victory, the 37-year-old superstar made it clear in his press conference the brush-off wasn’t aimed at either party.
“I have nothing against Jim Courier or the Australian public. It was a very awkward situation for me to face on the court today. It’s unfortunate, I chose to say something to the crowd, but obviously it wasn’t the time and space or situation for me to explain what I’m doing right now,” Djokovic said, per The Guardian. “I leave it to Channel 9 to handle this the way they think they see fit. That’s all.”
court after his win at the Australian Open. Getty Images
Djokovic, who expanded on the situation in a video shared Sunday on his X account, said he conversed with Craig Tiley, the director of the Australian Open, about the matter.
“I told him, you know, if you guys want to fine me for not giving an on-court interview, that’s okay, I’ll accept that ’cause I feel like this is something that needs to be done. That’s all there is to it,” Djokovic said.
Tennis.com reported Sunday that Channel 9 has not yet responded to Djokovic’s remarks.
Djokovic will next face Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz in Monday’s quarterfinals.
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