Novak Djokovic unsurprisingly has everyone talking at the Australian Open once more, this time both for his tennis and his other actions.
Djokovic came under fire from fans for not conducting an on-court interview after his fourth round win over Jiri Lehecka, but the Serbian was quick to justify his actions.
Former ATP number one Djokovic will accept a fine if such action is taken, having refused his interview due to previous comments from Channel 9 broadcaster Tony Jones.
Jones labelled the Serbian ‘overrated’ and a ‘has-been’ in front of a group of his fans on air at the Australian Open, much to the anger of the 24-time Grand Slam winner.
But it hasn’t just offended Djokovic, with a long list of former players and others jumping to his defence on social media.
Boris Becker and Victoria Azarenka criticise Tony Jones after Novak Djokovic comments
Fellow legend Boris Becker wrote on X: “That’s actually very disturbing behaviour from a TV broadcaster who works for Channel 9… does he still have a job for the rest of the tournament?”
Another icon in Victoria Azarenka also took to X to share her disgust, saying: “The audacity to call Novak Djokovic overrated by a reporter is just insane. The guy literally completed tennis by winning everything you can in our sport!”
And her fellow WTA legend Marion Bartoli meanwhile commented on X: “It’s shameful what he said. Clown.”
Jon Wertheim and Piers Morgan side with Novak Djokovic after on-court interview refusal
Djokovic was booed by Australian Open fans for his decision on court, which also left interview Jim Courier confused.
But the Serbian did have every right to turn down the chance to speak to those watching on given the childish behaviour from Jones.
Others within the broadcasting world have sided with Djokovic on the matter, with journalist Jon Wertheim writing on X: “Hard to take issue with Djokovic here. And you know who must hate this? Carlos Alcaraz. Angry Djokovic = dangerous Djokovic.”
Broadcaster Piers Morgan meanwhile had just commented: “Djokovic is right. That Channel 9 guy was an absolute tool.”
It is certainly not the first run-in Jones has had with a player, having also called WTA star Danielle Collins a ‘brat’ for her recent on-court interview where she thanked those booing her for essentially paying her bills.
And Collins has now hit back, sharing his criticism on her Instagram story with the words: “Tony, you know the vibe. I hear you make some fat paychecks also. Sounds like you need a vacay you poor thing.”
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