The Penitent Presenter: Tony Jones’ Apology to Djokovic and Serbian Tennis Fans

Novak Djokovic declined to participate in the customary on-court interview following his fourth-round victory over Jiri Lehecka on Sunday, pending a public apology from Alan Jones and Australian broadcast rights holders, Channel Nine. This came after Jones mocked Djokovic and Serbian fans who had gathered outside the broadcast booth at Melbourne Park, stating that the 24-time Grand Slam champion was “over-rated” and a “has-been.”

In a Channel Nine interview on Monday, Jones reflected on the incident, describing his comments as “banter” and expressing his regret over any offense caused. He mentioned that he had immediately offered a private apology to Djokovic’s team once he realized his words had not been taken lightly.

“I stand by my apology to Novak,” Jones asserted. “I also want to extend my apologies to the Serbian fans with whom we’ve built a wonderful rapport. I intended my comments as a continuation of our lighthearted banter, but it’s clear that they were not received in the spirit they were intended.”

Jones particularly regretted the comment “kick him out,” acknowledging that it could be interpreted as a reference to Djokovic’s deportation from Australia in 2022 due to his COVID vaccination status. “I understand why Novak was upset by that remark,” he said.

“It’s been a challenging situation for both of us,” Jones added, expressing his personal angst over the matter.

Tennis Australia confirmed that Djokovic, who is set to face world number three Carlos Alcaraz in the quarter-finals on Tuesday, wants to put the issue behind him. “Novak has accepted the public apology as requested and is now focusing on his upcoming match,” they stated.

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