Why Djokovic boycotted on-court interview at Australian Open 2025 on Sunday?

Novak Djokovic has demanded an apology from Channel 9 and broadcaster Tony Jones for “insulting” him and making a “mockery of Serbian fans” as he skipped the customary post-match TV interview at the Australian Open 2025 on Sunday. Djokovic on Sunday defeated Jiri Lehecka 6-3, 6-4, 7-6 (7-4) to set up a quarter-final against 3rd seed Carlos Alcaraz but refused to give the on-court interview to former player Jim Courier.

“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,” Djokovic said before leaving the court.

Something extraordinary just happened as Novak didn't wanna have a post-match chat. #Djokovichttps://t.co/iDV43eSb6r

— Tennis GIFs🎾🎥 (@tennis_gifs) January 19, 2025

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Djokovic accuses Channel 9 and Jones of insulting him

He cleared the confusion and reason behind him skipping the on-court interview at his press conference as the 24-time Grand Slam winner said that he is unhappy with Jones and the broadcaster, and not with Courier or fans.

“A couple of days ago, a famous sports journalist who works for the official broadcaster, Channel Nine, here in Australia made a mockery of Serbian fans and also made insulting and offensive comments towards me,” Djokovic said at the press conference without taking Jones’ name.

“Since then, he chose not to issue any public apology, neither did Channel Nine. Since they are the official broadcaster, I chose not to give interviews to Channel Nine.

A few words about what happened on court. pic.twitter.com/jRof2npiwH

— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) January 19, 2025

“I have nothing against Jim Courier and the Australian public, and 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 for me to explain what I’m doing right now.

“I leave it to Channel Nine to handle this the way they see fit, and that’s all,” he added.

Last week on air, Jones called Djokovic ‘overrated’ while the camera captured Serbian tennis fans.

New:

Novak Djokovic confirmed in his press conference just now that he boycotted his #AusOpen post-match interview tonight because of the host broadcaster, Channel 9, and its lack of apology for its anchor Tony Jones mocking Djokovic's fans recently on-air. pic.twitter.com/wZdc0HivvM

— Ben Rothenberg (@BenRothenberg) January 19, 2025

“Novak, he’s overrated. Novak’s a has-been. Novak, kick him out. Boy, I’m glad they can’t hear me. Anyway, let’s get onto the tennis,” Jones said.

Djokovic’s quarters against Alcaraz will be played on Tuesday.

Carlos Alcaraz reached the quarter-finals as his opponent Jack Draper was forced to retire due to an injury.