Novak Djokovic receives public apologies from Channel 9 and journalist Tony Jones after offensive comments, shifting focus to his Australian Open quarterfinal clash with Carlos Alcaraz.
Novak Djokovic, the 24-time Grand Slam champion, has received the public apologies he sought from Australian Open broadcaster Channel 9 and its journalist Tony Jones.
This development allows Djokovic to focus on his much-anticipated quarterfinal showdown against Carlos Alcaraz.
“Novak acknowledges the apology has been given in public as requested,” read a statement from Tennis Australia on Monday, “and is now moving on and focusing on his next match.”
This resolution concludes a peculiar off-court controversy that had momentarily distracted Djokovic as he chases his 11th Australian Open title and a record 25th major championship.
The incident began after Djokovic’s win on Sunday at Rod Laver Arena. Breaking tradition, he declined the customary post-match TV interview, prompting jeers from some spectators.
Hours later, Djokovic explained in a press conference that his decision was a protest against comments made by Jones during a Channel 9 broadcast on Friday.
While Djokovic didn’t name Jones, he referred to “a famous sports journalist who works for official broadcaster Channel 9” and accused him of mocking Serbian fans and making offensive remarks about the player.
Jones had described Djokovic as “overrated” and a “has-been,” while also referencing his deportation from Australia in 2022 over his COVID-19 vaccination status.
Djokovic vowed to avoid engaging with the network until both Jones and Channel 9 issued a public apology.
Public Apologies Issued
On Monday, Channel 9 released a statement apologizing “for any offense caused from comments made” during its live broadcast, clarifying that no harm was intended toward Djokovic or his fans.
Tony Jones also issued an apology, acknowledging that his remarks were intended as humor but might have caused offense.
“During my appearance, I considered my comments to be banter,” Jones said. “If Novak felt disrespected, I apologize. I immediately contacted his team to convey this sentiment and stand by my apology today.”
Jones extended his apologies to Serbian fans, saying, “I feel as though I’ve let them down. This isn’t about avoiding consequences—I genuinely regret any hurt caused.”
Serbia’s ambassador to Australia, Rade Stefanovic, described Jones’ remarks as “clearly unprofessional” and criticized his reference to Djokovic’s 2022 deportation as “most concerning.”
Social Media Exchange
Before the apologies, Djokovic took to social media to reiterate his reasons for avoiding the broadcaster.
His post caught the attention of tech mogul Elon Musk, who commented, “It’s way better just to talk to the public directly than go through the negativity filter of legacy media.”
Djokovic responded to Musk’s tweet with “Indeed” and a raised-hands emoji, signaling his agreement.
With the controversy now resolved, Djokovic shifts his attention back to the court as he aims for yet another historic milestone in his illustrious career.
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