Why does Novak Djokovic want apology at Australian Open? All you need to know about Tony Jones' controversial comments & Serb's reaction

Novak Djokovic is at the center of another Australian Open media drama, this time thanks to Channel 9's host broadcaster. The issue has gotten more serious after the Serb refused to give an interview after his fourth-round win against Jiri Lehecka on Sunday.

After the straight-sets win over the Czech, Djokovic stunned fans at the stadium as well as on TV when he walked out of the arena after only a short message. Initially, commentators as well as interviewer Jim Courier were taken aback by the 24-time Grand Slam champion's actions.

At his press conference later, however, Djokovic set the record straight as to why he snubbed the interview. As it turns out, one Tony Jones is to blame for the fiasco.

What did Tony Jones say about Novak Djokovic?

In an earlier broadcast, Nine Network's Tony Jones had made some comments about Novak Djokovic, calling him a 'has-been' and dedicating some choice remarks at his fans.

"Back to Melbourne Park, where you can see the Novak Djokovic fans there in full voice. The chants are quite extraordinary. Novak, he's overated! Novak's a has-been! Novak, kick him out! Boy I'm glad they can't hear me," he said.

The comments, naturally, led to a lot of criticism from fans on social media as well as members of the tennis fraternity, with Paul McNamee and Nick Kyrgios calling Jones out.

What did Novak Djokovic say about Tony Jones' comments?

2025 Australian Open - Day 8 - Source: Getty

In his press conference, Novak Djokovic made it clear that he did not stand for the mockery Tony Jones made of Serbian fans. The World No. 7 also wanted him to give a public apology for his 'insulting and offensive comments.'

"Couple days ago, a famous sports journalist, who works for official broadcaster Channel 9 in Australia, made a mockery of Serbian fans and also made insulting and offensive comments towards me and since then he chose not to issue any public apology," he said.

The 10-time Australian Open champ quickly added that he did not have anything against Courier or the Australian public.

"I have nothing against Jim Courier neither the Australian public. It was a very awkward situation for me to face on the court today and it's unfortunate. I chose to say something to the crowd but obviously it wasn't the time and space or the situation for me to explain what I am doing right now," he added.

On the tennis front, Djokovic will next take on Carlos Alcaraz in the quarterfinals in Melbourne on Tuesday.