“I don’t blame…” Jannik Sinner’s coach, Darren Cahill, reacts to Novak Djokovic’s stance against Channel 9 at the Australian Open
Novak Djokovic refused to engage in the traditional on-court interview after his fourth round win at the Australian Open.
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Novak Djokovic and Darren Cahill (via X/Tennis Majors)
Novak Djokovic shockingly refused to conduct the traditional on-court interview following his fourth-round win at the Australian Open. The Serbian later revealed that the reason for his refusal was because of a disparaging comment made by Channel 9 host Tony Jones. Jannik Sinner’s coach, Darren Cahill, reacted to the controversy.
Djokovic put out a masterclass display to defeat Jiri Lehecka 6-4, 6-3, 7-6 (4) to sail to the fourth round of the Australian Open on Sunday (January 19). But after the match, Jim Courier, the on-court interviewer was stunned when the Serbian handed the microphone back to him and simply walked off the court. Immediate speculation was that the 37-year-old star was not happy with the unfair treatment of the crowd.
However, he later revealed that he boycotted the interview because of a controversial remark made by Channel 9 host Tony Jones, who had said that Djokovic was overrated. The sports journalist’s comment was heavily criticized by Djokovic’s fans on social media.
Nonetheless, after the incident, Darren Cahill, Sinner’s coach said that Jones’ remarks were inappropriate. He added that Djokovic is right to demand an apology.
I’m sure Tony was trying to be but iIt was inappropriate. I don’t blame Novak for taking offence. And especially since what Novak went through with the COVID issue here, and considering how badly he was treated by the government, I think he was within his right to ask for an apology.
Darren Cahill said
Darren Cahill on Tony Jones comments "It was inappropriate. I don't blame Novak for taking offence" pic.twitter.com/K0lYTTXPHH
— asud (@asud683385) January 19, 2025
Meanwhile, Djokovic is set to face Carlos Alcaraz in the quarter-finals of the Australian Open. The Serbian holds a 4-3 head-to-head lead against the Spaniard, but in their last two meetings, both players have been able to earn one win each.
Nick Kyrgios slams Australian TV host for comments against Novak Djokovic
Nick Kyrgios blasted Tony Jones for his comments on Novak Djokovic while on a live session for Channel 9 at the Australian Open. The veteran Australian presenter said, “Novak was overrated,” against a background of vocal Djokovic supporters waving Serbian flag as they tried to make their way into Melbourne Park.
Jones’ alleged disrespect towards Djokovic made Kyrgios angry at him. The Aussie star, who is a staunch Djokovic supporter, shared the clip on his Instagram story and wrote:
Coming from this clown – couldn’t run around a park this bloke.
Nick Kyrgios wrote via Instagram
Kyrgios and Djokovic recently shared a warm rapport at the Brisbane International, where they played in the doubles. The duo won one match before exiting the doubles but gave fans an electric performance.
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Victor Okechukwu
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