Novak Djokovic responds to ‘potential fine’ from Australian Open for skipping the on-court interview after his fourth-round match
Novak Djokovic has asked Channel 9 for an open apology or the situation will remain the same for the upcoming matches.
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World No. 7 Novak Djokovic has addressed the situation regarding a potential fine he could receive from tennis authorities after skipping an on-court interview at the Australian Open. The Serb is at the center of controversy once again, as he refused to speak with Jim Courier after his fourth-round match.
Djokovic did briefly speak after taking the microphone from Courier, addressing the fans who came to support him. However, the conversation was short, and he left the court soon after.
If you guys want to fine me, I’ll accept that ’cause I feel this is something that needs to be done.’ That’s all there is to it.
Novak Djokovic said in his post-match press conference
The situation surrounding Djokovic’s refusal has sparked debate among many fans. However, the Serb clarified that his decision was directed at Channel 9 presenter Tony Jones.
Novak Djokovic told Craig Tiley if they want to fine him for not doing an on-court interview at Australian Open, that’s ok:
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) January 19, 2025
“If you guys want to fine me, I'll accept that 'cause I feel this is something that needs to be done.’ That's all there is to it”
pic.twitter.com/cVMOe2ygFI
Jones had recently made controversial remarks about Serbian fans, who were chanting Djokovic’s name directly behind him. Australian tennis player Nick Kyrgios has also criticized the Channel 9 presenter over this matter.
Novak Djokovic reunites rivalry with Carlos Alcaraz at the Australian Open
Novak Djokovic advanced to the Australian Open quarter-finals after defeating Czech 24th seed Jiri Lehecka 6-3, 6-4, 7-6 on Sunday. The Serb set up a high-profile match against Carlos Alcaraz. The win brought him closer to a record 25th Grand Slam title and his 11th in Melbourne.
Djokovic started the match slowly but quickly raised his level. A single break in the eighth game was enough for him to take the first set. The 37-year-old Serb looked in complete control, playing with confidence despite not being at full intensity.
In the second set, Djokovic focused on Lehecka’s serve, earning an early break and doubling his lead. Lehecka, 23, fought back after another break of serve, but Djokovic remained dominant. The Czech player had a tough challenge ahead in the third set.
Lehecka battled hard, but Djokovic remained strong. He won the tiebreak 4-2 and closed out the match. With this win, the 37-year-old matched Roger Federer’s record of 15 appearances in the Australian Open quarter-finals. His next opponent, Alcaraz, reached the quarter-finals after Jack Draper retired while trailing 7-5, 6-1.
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Fahad Hamid
(641 Articles Published)