Australian broadcaster Tony Jones has apologized to Novak Djokovic for comments he says were intended to be “banter” and “humor.”

The presenter at the center of Novak Djokovic’s decision to boycott on-court interviews at the Australian Open has apologized to the 24-time Grand Slam champion, saying that he “overstepped the mark.” Channel 9 presenter Tony Jones was overlooking a group of Serbian fans while recording a dispatch from Melbourne Park Friday night.

Channel 9 host Tony Jones has angered Novak Djokovic’s supporters by going rogue and sledging the Serbian superstar on a live broadcast.

Channel Nine host Tony Jones apologises for a comment — labelled "insulting and offensive" by Novak Djokovic — that prompted the 24-time major winner to boycott on-court interviews.

Nick Kyrgios brutally called out Channel 9's Tony Jones over his comments on Novak Djokovic by publicly asking "why it is always unathletic people" having a go at the very best athletes.

Djokovic said he wanted an apology from Channel 9 and Tony Jones, who called the 24-time Grand Slam champion overrated and a has-been during an on-air appearance at Melbourne Park.

Marcos Baghdatis labeled Tony Jones' comments about Novak Djokovic as "disrespectful and racist" as the Cypriot tennis legend believes the host deserves to be banned from further covering the Australian Open.

Novak Djokovic lived up to the odds and joined Carlos Alcaraz in the quarterfinals of the 2025 Australian Open. The Serbian legend defeated Czech Jiri Lehecka in three sets on the iconic Rod Laver Arena and earned a place in the top eight in the first Major of the new season.

Djokovic has been known to pick a battle with fans in the crowd because it spurs him to play better, and he often thrives off being public enemy No.1. The 10-time Australian Open champion will meet Carlos Alcaraz in the quarter-finals in Melbourne, but will head into the match as a heavy underdog.