Extraordinary scenes at the Rod Laver Arena! Novak Djokovic refuses to give a full on-court interview with commentator Jim Courier. The Serb sealed the deal in his fourth-round match against Jiri Lehecka by 6-3,6-3,7-6(4), but even after his comprehensive against the Czech, why did Djokovic take such a bizarre step? Fans are curious to know the real reason behind his decision. Was he unhappy with the crowd or Jim Courier or was there something else? Amid all these, some of the tennis fans highlighted that it could be due to Tony Jones’ previous comments over Novak Djokovic. Is it the real reason, though? Well, let’s hear it from the ‘horse’s mouth’.

“I’d like to just clarify the reason why it was not conducted on the court … a couple of days ago the famous sports journalist who works for official broadcaster Nine here in Australia made a mockery of Serbian fans and also made insulting and offensive comments towards me. And since then he chose not to issue any public apology, neither did Nine,” said Novak Djokovic in the post-match press conference.

He further added, “Since they’re official broadcasters I chose not to give interviews for Channel Nine. I have nothing against Jim Courier or the Australian public. It’s unfortunate, I chose to say something to the crowd but obviously wasn’t the time and situation to explain what I’m doing right now. I leave it to Nine to handle this the way they see fit.”

What really led to all these controversies, though? Well, just a few days ago, veteran Australian presenter, Tony Jones stirred a massive controversy in the tennis world with his remarks on Novak Djokovic. Jones appeared on the Nine News channel and covered the enthusiasm of the Serbian fans cheering for their idol, Novak Djokovic. Several of his fans were seen holding the Serbian flag and showcasing their enthusiasm in the background of Jones.

Amid all these, Tony Jones was heard saying, “Back to Melbourne Park, where you can see the Novak Djokovic fans there in full voice. The chants are quite extraordinary. Novak, he’s overrated! Novak’s a has-been! Novak, kick him out! Boy I’m glad they can’t hear me.” After making these comments on the 24-time Grand Slam champion, Jones found himself in troubled waters. He was literally at the center of a fiery backlash from not only fans but also several tennis experts.

Former Aussie tennis legend Paul McNamee came up with a tweet stating, “Tony I’m surprised, especially as you work for the host broadcaster, that you would send up a bunch of Aussies (with European heritage) having a good time celebrating their 10 time AO champion… trying to be funny mate?” Even Nick Kyrgios took a jibe at Jones saying, “Coming from this clown – couldn’t run around a park this bloke.” What did Jim Courier say about Novak Djokovic snubbing his on-court interview, though?

Jim Courier shares his thoughts on Novak Djokovic’s decision to opt out of a longer interview after his R4 win

Jim Courier is one of the best in business when it comes to conducting interviews. He has been working with the Channel Nine since 2005. He is also an analyst for Tennis Channel and Prime Video Sport. What was his initial reaction when he saw Novak Djokovic shocking snubbing his on-court interview after his fourth-round win?

Well, while speaking to Eurosport, Courier later on said, “He just didn’t feel like having a chat. I had no idea that was going to happen but there is no obligation for these players to do that. It’s an opportunity for them to talk to people in the stadium and the fans around the world. But a player can opt-out.” This was a pretty rare scene, especially after considering how much Novak Djokovic loves interacting with his fans. Despite refusing to do the on-court interview, we did see him staying on the court to sign a few autographs.

Novak Djokovic is well aware of the consequences he could face for snubbing the on-court interview. So, in the press conference, he also told the media personnel that he spoke to Craig Tiley, the CEO of Tennis Australia about the issue. “I just wanted to make sure that he knows where I stand and the reasons behind it. So I told him: ‘If you guys want to fine me for not giving an on-court interview, that’s OK.’ I’ll accept that ’cause I feel like this is something that needs to be done. That’s all there is to it.”

Amid all these controversies, we must not forget who he is all set to face in his next match. Novak Djokovic has now reached his 15th Australian Open QF and guess what? He’s all set to face the world number 3, Carlos Alcaraz in the next round. Djokovic currently has a 4-3 lead over the Spanish superstar! Do you think he can extend this lead and move inches closer to his 11 AO title?