Channel Nine broadcaster Tony Jones has issued a public apology to Novak Djokovic after making comments the 24-time Grand Slam champion deemed “insulting and offensive.” The incident has sparked backlash from Djokovic, Serbian fans, and advocacy groups, further fueling tensions at the Australian Open.
The Incident
On Friday, during a live broadcast at the Australian Open, Jones directed remarks toward Djokovic fans, shouting:
“Novak, he’s overrated, Novak’s a has-been, Novak kick him out.”
These comments, which Jones later described as “banter and humor,” were perceived as deeply disrespectful by Djokovic and his supporters.
As a result, Djokovic refused to participate in the customary on-court interview following his fourth-round victory over Jiri Lehecka on Sunday, citing Channel Nine’s role as the tournament’s official broadcaster.
Speaking at a post-match press conference, Djokovic said:
“[The comments] made a mockery of Serbian fans and were insulting and offensive toward me. It was a very awkward situation for me.”
Apologies and Fallout
Jones has since publicly apologized, acknowledging the harm caused:
- On-air Apology: “I stand by my apology to Novak if he feels any disrespect, which he clearly does. The disrespect extends to Serbian fans, and I genuinely feel for them.”
- Acknowledgement of Overstepping: Jones admitted that his “kick him out” remark was inappropriate and could be interpreted as a reference to Djokovic’s 2022 deportation from Australia during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Channel Nine also issued a statement emphasizing that “no harm was intended toward Novak or his fans.”
The Serbian Council of Australia has called for Jones to be dismissed, labeling the comments as “offensive, racist, and inciting discrimination against Australian-Serbs.”
Djokovic’s Response
While Djokovic acknowledged the apology, he expressed frustration over the incident and its timing:
“Novak acknowledges the apology has been given in public as requested and is now moving on and focusing on his next match,” Tennis Australia stated.
Djokovic is preparing for a highly anticipated quarter-final match against world number three Carlos Alcaraz on Tuesday.
Lingering Tensions
Despite Jones’ repeated apologies, the fallout highlights larger issues of cultural sensitivity and respect in sports broadcasting. Jones revealed that he had offered to meet Djokovic in person to apologize, though the meeting has not yet occurred.
“This has been an unfortunate situation,” Jones said. “The priority now is to focus on the tennis. He has an amazing match, and I hope he can focus on that.”
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