Awkward moment Djokovic walks out of on-court interview after saying just 22 words before releasing statement on boycott
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NOVAK DJOKOVIC refused to take part in an on-court interview following his straight sets victory over Jiri Lehecka at the Australian Open earlier today. The brilliant Serb, 37, produced an excellent performance to book a quarter-final clash with Carlos Alcaraz.
![[Novak Djokovic speaks with an interviewer after a tennis match.]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/novak-djokovic-serbia-speaks-on-964937518.jpg?strip=all&w=639)
But having been upset by comments made by Channel 9 presenter Tony Jones, Djokovic did not stick around for an interview. Following the match, Jones' colleague Jim Courier took to the court on Rod Laver Arena to speak to Djokovic. But the 24-time Major champion only offered a brief statement to fans before walking off.
![[Novak Djokovic speaks into a microphone after a tennis match.]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/speaks-microphone-court-winning-mens-964936788.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
Before being seen in discussions with tournament director Craig Tiley, Djokovic said: "Thank you very much for being here tonight, I appreciate your presence and the support. I'll see you in the next round.". Jones, 63, upset Djokovic with comments made while standing in front of a vocal group of singing Serbian supporters.
![[Novak Djokovic being interviewed after a tennis match.]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/novak-djokovic-serbia-leaves-rod-964936153.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
The Aussie said: "Welcome back to Melbourne Park, where you can see the Novak Djokovic fans, they’re in full voice. The chants are quite extraordinary.". Jones then sang: ‘Novak, he’s overrated. Novak’s a has-been. Novak, kick him out. "Boy, I’m glad they can’t hear me. Anyway, let’s get onto the tennis.".
![[Novak Djokovic at a press conference.]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/photo-vince-caligiuri-tennis-australia-964950359.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
SUN BINGO GET £50 BONUS & 50 FREE SPINS TODAY. Djokovic began his post-match press conference with a pre-prepared statement on the issue. He said: "Good evening. I would like to just clarify the reason why the interview was not conducted on the court, the post-match interview, like it's a common, usual practice.
