Australian Open 2025: Novak Djokovic lifts media boycott after apology from broadcaster

Australian broadcaster Tony Jones has issued an apology to Novak Djokovic following remarks he made on 17th January, Friday night, which the 10-time Australian Open champion deemed "insulting and offensive." The comments, which sparked a backlash from Serbian fans, led Djokovic to boycott the traditional post-match interview after his fourth-round victory on Sunday, 19th January.

Controversial comments spark backlash

Jones, a presenter for Channel Nine, caused a stir when he referred to the 24-time Grand Slam champion as "overrated" and a "has-been" during a broadcast at Melbourne Park. 

The remarks quickly drew the ire of Djokovic's supporters, who gathered outside Channel Nine's broadcast booth. The Serbian fans voiced their displeasure as Jones continued to explain that his comments were meant to be light-hearted banter.

However, Djokovic took the situation seriously and opted to not engage in the customary on-court interview after his victory, making it clear that he would not speak to Channel Nine until Jones offered an apology. The decision was a direct response to the perceived disrespect.

Jones issues apology

In response to the fallout, Jones initially maintained that he was simply joking with the crowd, but as it became apparent that his words had offended, he issued a private apology to Djokovic's camp. "I can stand by that apology to Novak," Jones said. "We have built up a nice rapport with the Serbian fans... and there was banter, and I thought what I was doing was an extension of that banter. Quite clearly, that has not been interpreted that way."

While the apology was made privately, Jones acknowledged the tension surrounding the situation. "It’s quite clearly personal angst for me as well," he added, expressing regret over the unintended consequences of his comments.

Tennis Australia confirmed that Djokovic, who will face world No. 3 Carlos Alcaraz in the quarterfinals on 21st January, Tuesday, was eager to move past the issue. Despite the public disagreement, Djokovic has expressed a desire to focus on his performance in the tournament and leave the controversy behind.

As the two tennis icons prepare for their upcoming quarterfinal clash, the matter appears to have been resolved, with both parties aiming to put the incident behind them.