Novak Djokovic boycotts on-court interview amid Channel 9 row at Australian Open

Novak Djokovic began his Australian Open post-match press conference in a somber mood Sunday evening when he addressed the reason why he eschewed the traditional on-court interview after reaching the quarterfinals—a decision that drew boos from fans on Rod Laver Arena.

“Couple days ago. the famous sports journalist who works for official broadcaster, Channel 9 here in Australia, made a mockery of Serbian fans and also made insulting and offensive comments towards me,” Djokovic explained following a 6-3, 6-4, 7-6 (4) victory over Jiri Lehecka. “And since then, he chose not to issue any public apology. Neither did Channel 9. So, since they're official broadcasters, I chose not to give interviews for Channel 9.”

The incident in question played out on live television Friday night when broadcaster Tony Jones, already under fire for calling Danielle Collins a “brat” for her on-court behavior, mocked a group of Serbian fans chanting Djokovic’s name during a newsread.

It was a very awkward situation for me to face on the court today. It's unfortunate I chose to say something to the crowd, but obviously wasn't the time and space or situation for me to explain what I'm doing right now. Novak Djokovic

“Novak is overrated ... Novak’s a has-been ... Novak kick him out,” he reportedly chanted. “I am glad that they can’t hear me.”

In response, Djokovic opted not to give the tradition on-court interview Sunday ahead of his blockbuster quarterfinal clash with No. 3 seed Carlos Alcaraz, but reaffirmed the decision was purely in response to a lack of apology from Jones or Channel 9.

“I have nothing against Jim Courier or neither the Australian public,” said Djokovic. “It was a very awkward situation for me to face on the court today. It's unfortunate I chose to say something to the crowd, but obviously wasn't the time and space or situation for me to explain what I'm doing right now.

“I leave it to Channel 9 to handle this the way they think they see fit. That's all.”

Djokovic later confirmed he has been in touch with Australian Open tournament director Criag Tiley about the incident.

“I just wanted to make sure, as I have really nice relationship with Craig, I think he's a phenomenal guy that always tries to help players and understand the players' needs or demands, so I just wanted to make sure that he knows where I stand and the reasons behind it.

“So I told him, you know, If you guys want to fine me for not giving an on-court interview, that's okay, I'll accept that 'cause I feel like this is something that needs to be done. That's all there is to it.”

Channel 9 are yet to respond to Djokovic’s latest comments.