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Novak Djokovic Boycotting TV Interview At The Australian Open

Originally posted on The Spun | By Andrew Gould | Last updated Jan 19, 2025 12:17 PM ET

Novak Djokovic said he will continue to skip post-match interviews at the Australian Open following comments from a broadcaster.

On Sunday morning, Djokovic defeated Jiri Lehecka in a fourth-round matchup in Melbourne. The 24-time Grand Slam champion set up a quarterfinal encounter against Carlos Alcaraz in a rematch of last year's Wimbledon and Olympics finals.

Following his win, Djokovic declined to conduct an interview with Jim Courier. He instead quickly thanked the fans before leaving, drawing some boos from the crowd at Rod Laver Arena.

During his press conference, Djokovic explained that he skipped the customary TV interview because of remarks made on the tournament's local broadcast. He didn't name anyone, but Tony Jones called the star "overrated" and a "has been" when saying to "kick him out."

"A couple of days ago, the famous sports journalist who works for official broadcaster, Channel 9 here in Australia, made a mockery of Serbian fans and also made insulting and offensive comments towards me," Djokovic told reporters, via The Athletic. "And since then, he chose not to issue any public apology. Neither did Channel 9. So since they're official broadcasters, I chose not to give interviews for Channel 9."

Djokovic said he has "nothing against Courier" or the Australian people and called the situation "awkward" and "unfortunate."

"I chose to say something to the crowd, but obviously wasn't the time and space or situation for me to explain what I'm doing right now," Djokovic said of addressing the fans without telling them why he refused an interview. "I leave it to Channel 9 to handle this the way they think they see fit."

Djokovic also posted a video on X explaining his reasoning. The 37-year-old said he hoped Jones and Channel 9 would apologize.

He apologized to attendees disappointed that they didn't hear him speak after the match.

"I have to stand by my decision ... until something is done," Djokovic said. "So I leave it to Channel 9. Hopefully that situation will change for the next match."

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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