Mon Jan 20 13:53:40 UTC 2025: ## Djokovic Demands and Receives Apology from Australian Broadcaster
**Melbourne, Australia** – Australian broadcaster Tony Jones has issued a public apology to Novak Djokovic and his fans following controversial comments made on Channel Nine. The remarks, which mocked Djokovic and his Serbian supporters gathered outside the broadcast booth at Melbourne Park, prompted the tennis star to boycott the customary on-court interview after his fourth-round Australian Open win on Sunday.
Jones initially dismissed his comments as “banter and humour,” but acknowledged in a Monday interview that they were deeply offensive. He revealed that he received a complaint from Djokovic’s camp through Tennis Australia on Saturday and immediately issued a private apology. He stated that he regretted particularly the remark referring to Djokovic’s 2022 deportation from Australia due to his COVID-19 vaccination status.
Djokovic’s refusal to speak to Jim Courier, the scheduled interviewer, and his brief, unscripted address to the crowd, followed by a quick exit, highlighted his displeasure. Despite the visible frustration, he took time to sign autographs for fans. The crowd’s reaction was mixed, with some booing Djokovic’s decision to skip the interview.
Jones expressed remorse for the incident, stating that his intention wasn’t to cause offense and that the situation has caused personal distress for both himself and Djokovic. He emphasized his apology extended to both the tennis star and his Serbian fans, acknowledging that his “banter” was misinterpreted. The incident underscores the high tension surrounding Djokovic’s participation in the tournament and the passionate reaction of his fanbase.
First Piper 