"What more does Novak Djokovic have to do to get respect", "Can't live without drama"- Fans react to Serb's shocking interview snub at Australian Open

Novak Djokovic sparked controversy at the Rod Laver Arena by skipping the interview following his fourth-round win at the Australian Open. His actions subsequently drew a wave of reactions from fans online.

Djokovic took another step toward his record 25th Grand Slam title with a 6-3, 6-4, 7-6(4) win over 24th seed Jiri Lehecka on Sunday, January 19. Unlike most players who remain on the court for post-match interviews to discuss their performance, the Serb chose to skip the customary interaction, offering a brief thank-you to the crowd before departing.

The 10-time Australian Open champion was reportedly booed by fans during the match, particularly in the tense third set. However, Djokovic later explained that his decision to skip the interview was not related to the crowd but to remarks made by a Channel 9 journalist, who had mocked the Serbian fans:

"Thank you very much for being here tonight, I appreciate your presence and the support and I will see you in the next round," he said during the interview and left the Rod Laver Arena.

Watch the video shared by the Tennis Channel on X below:

Several fans opined on the turn of events, with one questioning the lack of respect shown to Novak Djokovic during matches. They wrote:

"I don't blame him at this point. What more does he have to do to get respect during a match? He's not asking for much. And I was a Nadal fan."

"Classy way to handle a guy/network that insulted you. I see no issue," another said.

"Unexpected???? More like deserved and a great move," a third fan wrote.

However, a section of fans criticized the 37-year-old's actions with one calling those "immature."

"Novak Djokovic just can't live without making drama on the court. He is 37 yo, but his behavior is so immature," one wrote.

"The most unlikeable male personality in tennis making himself less likeable again 👏🏻," another commented.

"Manufacturing controversy and conflict again to motivate himself," a fan wrote.

Additionally, the Serb faced jeers as he walked away after skipping the post-match interview. Djokovic encountered a similar situation during his Wimbledon campaign last year and later expressed disappointment with the crowd's behavior.

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Novak Djokovic will face Carlos Alcaraz in the 2025 Australian Open QF

Novak Djokovic at 2025 Australian Open - Image Source: Getty

Novak Djokovic faces a tough challenge against Carlos Alcaraz in the quarterfinals of the 2025 Australian Open. The encounter on Tuesday, January 21, will be their first before any semifinal and their first hard-court encounter at a Grand Slam.

Alcaraz secured a walkover win against Jack Draper, who entered the tournament with a hip injury. The Briton required treatment after the first set and ultimately retired after losing the second set 7-5, 6-1.

The quarterfinal encounter at the Rod Laver Arena will be the eighth meeting between Djokovic and Alcaraz, with the Serb leading their head-to-head 4-3.