Broadcaster apologizes after Novak Djokovic refuses post-match TV interview at the Australian Open

Novak Djokovic refuses post-match interview at Australian Open due to broadcaster's offensive comments, sparking apology and controversy.

The host broadcaster has apologized after Novak Djokovic declined to do a customary post-match on court interview at the Australian Open on Sunday (January 19, 2025) to protest comments made on air by someone who works for the TV network.

Djokovic said he wanted an apology from Channel 9 and Tony Jones, who called the 24-time Grand Slam champion overrated and a has-been, as well as an apparent reference to his deportation from Australia in 2022 for being unvaccinated for COVID-19, during an on-air appearance at Melbourne Park where a crowd of the player's supporters were chanting.

Djokovic, a 37-year-old from Serbia, did not name Jones, but said a "famous sports journalist who works for official broadcaster, Channel 9 ... made a mockery of Serbian fans and also made insulting and offensive comments toward me.”

Djokovic said he would continue to avoid speaking to the network.

“I leave it to Channel 9 to handle this the way they think they see fit. That’s all,” Djokovic said.

Australia's Nine Network issued a statement Monday (January 20, 2025) and apologized to Djokovic “for any offense caused from comments made during a recent live cross.”

“No harm was intended towards Novak or his fans,” the statement said. “We look forward to further showcasing his Australian Open campaign at Melbourne Park.”