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Novak Djokovic Skips On-Court Interview After Channel 9 Controversy

By TieBreakNewsPosted on
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Djokovic Boycotts Channel 9 Interviews Over Mockery of Serbian Fans and Personal Insults


Photo credit: Andy Cheung/Getty

Actions speak louder than words, and Novak Djokovic let his silence send a message after his fourth-round Australian Open victory.

The ten-time Australian Open champion declined the customary on-court interview with Hall of Famer Jim Courier following his 6-3, 6-4, 7-6(4) win over Jiri Lehecka. Djokovic briefly addressed the Rod Laver Arena crowd, saying, “Thank you for being here tonight. Thank you for the presence and support. See you in the next round,” before handing back the microphone and exiting to sign autographs.

In his post-match press conference, the 37-year-old Serbian star revealed that his decision to forgo the interview was a protest against Channel 9 host Tony Jones. Djokovic accused Jones of mocking Serbian fans and labeling him as a “failure” and “overrated.”

Djokovic’s move sparked debate among fans and commentators, adding another chapter to his eventful Australian Open journey.


Tensions flared at the Australian Open as Novak Djokovic declined an on-court interview following his fourth-round win, citing offensive comments made by Channel 9 host Tony Jones.

During a broadcast, Jones mocked celebrating Serbian fans who were chanting “Nole! Nole!” while waving flags, mimicking them in a sing-song voice and adding, “Novak, he’s overrated… Novak, he’s a has-been.”

Annoyed by the remarks and the lack of an apology from Jones or Channel 9, Djokovic explained his decision to boycott interviews with the official broadcaster. “A couple of days ago, a sports journalist from Channel 9 mocked Serbian fans and made offensive comments about me,” Djokovic said in his post-match press conference. “Since then, neither he nor Channel 9 has issued an apology. As a result, I chose not to give interviews to them.”

The 37-year-old clarified that his decision was not directed at Jim Courier, who typically conducts the on-court interviews, or Australian fans. He also informed AO Tournament Director Craig Tiley of his stance, expressing willingness to accept any fine levied for the boycott.

“I just wanted to make sure Craig knows where I stand,” Djokovic stated. “If there’s a fine, I’ll accept it. This is something I feel strongly about.”


ESPN analyst and Jannik Sinner’s coach Darren Cahill supported Djokovic, saying, “I’m sure Tony was trying to be funny, but it was inappropriate. Novak has every right to be upset.”


Djokovic, now in his record-equaling 15th Australian Open quarterfinal, is set to face reigning Roland Garros and Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz in a highly anticipated clash. Serbian fans are expected to turn out in full force, but all eyes will be on whether Channel 9 or Tony Jones addresses the controversy

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