India, Jan. 20 -- Channel 9 presenter Tony Jones publicly apologized to Novak Djokovic and Serbian fans in Australia following the 24-time Grand Slam champion's unexpected boycott of the on-court interview after his fourth-round victory against Jiri Lehecka at the 2025 Australian Open. The Australian broadcaster asserted that he had already expressed his apologies to Djokovic on Saturday, before the match on Sunday at the Rod Laver Arena.

After securing a straight-set victory over the Czech player, which allowed Djokovic to equal Roger Federer's record of 15 quarterfinal appearances at the Australian Open, the Serbian player declined to participate in the on-court interview with two-time Australian Open champion Jim Courier. In the post-match press conference, Djokovic explained that his decision to boycott was a response to Jones' recent remarks, which he found to be "insulting and offensive."

During an appearance on the Today Show on Monday, amidst calls for his resignation due to his comments, Jones stated that he had made efforts to reconcile with Djokovic on Saturday, reaching out to the ten-time champion in Melbourne before the incident at the Rod Laver Arena. However, following Djokovic's request for a public apology, Jones issued a new statement.

"The comments were made during the news on Friday night, which I perceived as banter. I thought it was humorous, which aligns with my usual style," he remarked. "However, I was informed on Saturday morning by Tennis Australia, through the Djokovic camp, that they were quite displeased with those comments. Consequently, I promptly contacted the Djokovic camp and apologized to them—48 hours ago—for any disrespect that Novak felt I had caused."

At this moment, I can only reaffirm my apology to Novak. It is important to acknowledge that the disrespect was also directed towards the Serbian fans in various ways. We have developed a positive relationship with the Serbian supporters, characterized by playful exchanges, and I believe my actions were a continuation of that spirit. Unfortunately, my intentions were misinterpreted. I feel that I have disappointed the Serbian fans, and this situation is regrettable.

In response to Jones' remarks, the Australian media outlet also issued an apology to Novak Djokovic.

Their statement expressed: "Nine wishes to extend its apologies to Novak Djokovic for any offence caused by comments made during a recent live broadcast. There was no intention to harm Novak or his supporters. We are eager to continue highlighting his Australian Open journey at Melbourne Park."

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