Novak Djokovic learns his fate from Australian Open bosses after breaking the rules by boycotting interview over Tony Jones scandal
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Tennis Australia has decided not to fine Serbian superstar Novak Djokovic for skipping media commitments to protest against comments made by Channel Nine star Tony Jones last week. Djokovic declined a post-match interview after his fourth-round win, explaining in his press conference and on social media that he decided on the boycott due to being mocked by Jones.
'A couple of days ago the famous sports journalist who works for official broadcaster, Channel 9 here in Australia, made a mockery of Serbian fans and also made insulting and offensive comments towards me,' the 24-time grand slam winner later clarified.
'And since then, he chose not to issue any public apology. Neither did Channel 9. So since they're official broadcasters, I chose not to give interviews for Channel 9.'. The comments came on Friday when Jones was broadcasting in front of an assembled crowd of Serbian Djokovic fans chanting and singing to honour their hero.
'Welcome back to Melbourne Park, where you can see the Novak Djokovic fans, they're in full voice,' Jones said. 'The chants are quite extraordinary.'. Novak Djokovic will escape sanction for skipping his media commitments in protest of Channel Nine reporter Tony Jones' comments.
Jones has made a public apology and has been retained by the host broadcaster for the rest of the Australian Open. Jones was lambasted for mocking Serbian supporters and making disparaging comments about their hero Novak Djokovic. He then turned round to face the Serbian supporters and mocked their chanting: 'Novak, he's overrated,' Jones sang. 'Novak's a has-been. Novak, kick him out.