Novak Djokovic moved to the Australian Open quarterfinals on Sunday with a straight-set victory over Jiří Lehecka within the fourth spherical of the event.
However Djokovic’s dominance was overshadowed by what occurred when he left the courtroom. Djokovic refused to talk to Australia’s Channel 9, the official broadcaster of the event for the host nation, over journalist Tony Jones’ remarks about the Serbian star.
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Novak Djokovic celebrates after defeating Jiri Lehecka on the Australian Open in Melbourne, Sunday, Jan. 19, 2025. (AP Photograph/Asanka Brendon Ratnayake)
Djokovic stated he wished an apology from the station and Jones with out mentioning Jones by title. He stated, “Well-known sports activities journalist who works for the official broadcaster, Channel 9… made a mockery of Serbian followers and likewise made insulting and offensive feedback towards me.”
Jones known as Djokovic overrated and a has-been.
He stated he’ll proceed to boycott chatting with the community.
“I depart it to Channel 9 to deal with this the best way they assume they see match. That’s all,” he stated.
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Novak Djokovic indicators autographs for followers after defeating Jiri Lehecka on the Australian Open in Melbourne, Sunday, Jan. 19, 2025. (AP Photograph/Asanka Brendon Ratnayake)
Djokovic instantly left the courtroom after defeating Lehecka. He was anticipated to talk to former tennis participant Jim Courier on tv. He advised reporters at his press convention that he was nonetheless upset with Jones and Channel 9.
The tennis star stated he spoke to Tennis Australia CEO Craig Tiley as nicely.
“I simply wished to make it possible for he is aware of the place I stand and the explanations behind it,” he stated. “So I advised him, ‘In case you guys wish to fantastic me for not giving an on-court interview, that’s OK.’ I’ll settle for that as a result of I really feel like that is one thing that must be performed. That’s all there may be to it.”
Billionaire X proprietor Elon Musk weighed in on the state of affairs in a social media put up.
“It’s method higher simply to speak to the general public instantly than undergo the negativity filter of legacy media,” Musk wrote.
Novak Djokovic is congratulated by Jiri Lehecka after their fourth spherical match on the Australian Open in Melbourne, Sunday, Jan. 19, 2025. (AP Photograph/Mark Baker)
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Djokovic responded, “Certainly.”
The Related Press contributed to this report.
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