Tennis legend Novak Djokovic has declined to do a customary post-match TV interview at the Australian Open after his win Sunday night as a protest for comments made on air by someone who works for the official broadcaster of the tournament in the host country, reported news agency PTI.
According to the report, Djokovic said he wants an apology from both Channel 9 and Tony Jones. The 24-time Grand Slam champion accused them for calling him overrated during an on-air appearance at Melbourne Park where a crowd of the player's supporters were chanting.
Though Djokovic did not name Jones, but said a "famous sports journalist who works for official broadcaster, Channel 9 ... made a mockery of Serbian fans and also made insulting and offensive comments toward me.”
Djokovic said he will continue to avoid speaking to the network.
“I leave it to Channel 9 to handle this the way they think they see fit. That's all,” PTI quoted Djokovic as saying.
Djokovic was expected to speak to former player Jim Courier on television after beating Jiri Lehecka in three sets at Rod Laver Arena to reach the quarterfinals. However, Djokovic held the microphone and told the crowd: “Thank you very much for being here tonight. I appreciate your presence and the support. I'll see you next round. Thank you very much.”
In the news conference held later, Djokovic began with a statement, telling reporters why he didn't do the interview. he clarified he was upset by Jones and the broadcaster, not Courier or the fans in the stadium.
He said that he also spoke to Craig Tiley, the CEO of Tennis Australia, about the issue.
“I just wanted to make sure that he knows where I stand and the reasons behind it,” Djokovic said.
“So I told him: If you guys want to fine me for not giving an on-court interview, that's OK.' I'll accept that 'cause I feel like this is something that needs to be done. That's all there is to it.”
With agency inputs.
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