Sunday, after his victory in the round of 16 of the Australian Open, Novak Djokovic did not participate in the traditional post-match interview, due to these “comments” according to him “insulting” from the journalist to his respect and towards the Serbian supporters.
Winner of 24 Grand Slam titles, the former world No.1 added at a press conference that he would no longer give an interview to Channel 9 until a public apology had been presented.
The Serb also published a video on the social network X in the night from Sunday to Monday in which he explains the reasons which pushed him to leave the court without giving an interview.
“The ball is in Channel 9’s court and I hope the situation will change by the next match,” Djokovic declared in particular.
Monday afternoon, the video published by Djokovic had been viewed more than 60 million times and republished in particular by the owner of the social network Elon Musk, who was pleased that the former world No. 1 spoke “directly to people “rather than through the media.
“More respect”
Tony Jones told a Channel 9 show on Monday morning that he considered his comments on Friday to be “challenge”.
“I felt it was humor, as I often do” live, he added. “That being said, I was informed on Saturday morning that Djokovic and his team were very angry.”
“I immediately contacted Djokovic’s team to apologize – 48 hours ago – for any lack of respect felt by Novak and which I caused.”
“Today (Monday), I can only reiterate this apology to Novak,” continued Tony Jones.
-“I must also add that the lack of respect also affected, in many aspects, the Serbian supporters, with whom the journalist claims to have “built a great relationship”.
“We’re talking to each other, and I thought what I said fit into that framework. Clearly, it wasn’t interpreted that way.”
“I feel like I have disappointed the Serbian fans, it’s unfortunate,” concluded Tony Jones.
Channel 9 also made amends in a statement, stressing that it had “no intention of hurting Novak or his fans”.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese indicated on ABC radio that he “saw the comments” of Tony Jones pinned down by Djokovic.
“We need more kindness and respect from all sides. This is what people want,” declared the head of government.
The controversy surrounding the presenter’s comments comes three years after Djokovic was expelled from Australia.
Placed in detention, the Serb finally saw his visa canceled due to his refusal to be vaccinated against Covid-19.
