Djokovic refuses Australian Open interviews over 'insulting comments

Novak Djokovic said Sunday he will not do any more on-court interviews at the Australian Open after accusing a leading anchor at the host broadcaster of making "insulting comments" about him and Serbian people.

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The 10-time Melbourne champion refused to do a regular post-match chat after beating Jiri Lehecka in three sets on Rod Laver Arena to make the quarterfinals.

Instead, he took the microphone from interviewer Jim Courier, made a quick statement thanking the crowd and walked off to a smattering of boos.

Djokovic explained the decision in a post-match press conference.

In his off court interview Djokovic was greeted by his 1st EVER fan who believed in him 20 years ago. Novak had given him tickets for the event and it was great to see this completely change his mood after walking off court 🥹

Heartwarming ❤️#ausopen #AusOpen25 #AusOpen2025 pic.twitter.com/5nJ0MLNyqE

— GAME TO LOVE (@GTLTennis) January 19, 2025

"Couple days ago the famous sports journalist who works for official broadcaster Channel Nine here in Australia made a mockery of Serbian fans and also made insulting and offensive comments towards me," he said, not naming him but appearing to reference Tony Jones.

"And since then, he chose not to issue any public apology. Neither did Channel Nine. So since they're official broadcasters, I chose not to give interviews for Channel Nine."

"I have nothing against Jim Courier or the Australian public," Djokovic added.

Novak Djokovic told Craig Tiley if they want to fine him for not doing an on-court interview at Australian Open, that’s ok:

“If you guys want to fine me, I'll accept that 'cause I feel this is something that needs to be done.’ That's all there is to it”

pic.twitter.com/cVMOe2ygFI

— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) January 19, 2025

"It was a very awkward situation for me to face on the court today."

Asked if it would be an ongoing stance until he got an apology, he replied: "Yes, exactly."

According to local media, Djokovic's supporters were angered on Friday night when Jones made fun of them and the 24-time Grand Slam winner while on air.

Djokovic said he had been in touch with tournament chief Craig Tiley and was willing to accept a fine for not doing the on-court interviews.

"That's okay, I'll accept that because I feel like this is something that needs to be done. That's all there is to it," he said.