Novak Djokovic receives apology from Australian broadcaster for ‘disrespect’ in ‘insulting’ comments at Australian Open

Novak Djokovic has received an apology from Channel Nine broadcaster Tony Jones, who made comments the 24-time Grand Slam champion deemed “insulting and offensive”.

He revealed afterwards that he made the decision because he felt Jones had “made a mockery of Serbian fans and also made insulting and offensive comments towards me” while live on air at the Australian Open.

Jones shouted “Novak, he’s overrated, Novak’s a has-been, Novak kick him out” as Serbian fans celebrated behind him.

Jones issued an apology on Channel Nine on Monday, saying he was sorry for “any disrespect”.

“However, I was made aware on the Saturday morning from Tennis Australia, via the Djokovic camp, that the Djokovic camp was not happy at all with those comments.

“I immediately contacted the Djokovic camp and issued an apology to them – 48 hours ago – for any disrespect which Novak felt I had caused.

“As I stand here now, I stand by that apology to Novak if he feels any disrespect, which he clearly does.

“The disrespect extends to the Serbian fans – over the years here there has been colour with them and passion and banter, and I thought that was an extension of that banter. Quite clearly that hasn’t been interpreted that way.

“I do feel I’ve let down the Serbian fans. I’m not just saying that to wriggle out of trouble. I genuinely feel for those fans.”

Djokovic, who faces Carlos Alcaraz in a blockbuster quarter-final match on Tuesday, was deported from Australia three years ago because of Covid-19 regulations.

Jones said he had “overstepped the mark” with his “kick him out” comment.

“That has angered Novak – I completely understand that,” said Jones.

“It has been an unfortunate situation and one of personal angst for Novak and personal angst for me as well. The priority now is to focus on the tennis. He has an amazing match and I hope he can focus on that.

“I can only again tell Novak what I told him 48 hours ago which is I do apologise if he feels I disrespected him.

“I agreed to meet him in person, they came back and yes, that hasn’t transpired yet but I hope it will happen in the next 24 hours.”

Tennis Australia added: “Novak acknowledges the apology has been given in public as requested and is now moving on and focusing on his next match.”