AssetID: 54445705
Headline: UNCAPTIONED: Broadcaster Apologises to Djokovic After Offensive Comments at Australian Open
Caption: Broadcaster Apologises to Djokovic After Offensive Comments at Australian Open. Channel Nine’s Tony Jones shouted remarks like "Novak’s a has-been" and "kick him out" while live on air, upsetting Djokovic and his Serbian fans. Djokovic refused his usual on-court interview after Sunday’s win over Jiri Lehecka, citing the broadcaster's behavior as the reason. In a press conference, Djokovic called the remarks a "mockery" of Serbian fans and said they created a "very awkward situation" for him. Tony Jones later apologised, saying his comments were meant as "banter" but acknowledged they were misinterpreted and had caused genuine hurt. Jones admitted he "overstepped the mark," especially with his "kick him out" comment, which Djokovic linked to his 2022 deportation from Australia. The Serbian Council of Australia condemned the remarks as "offensive, racist, and inciting discrimination," calling for Jones to be sacked. Channel Nine issued its own apology, stating that "no harm was intended towards Novak or his fans.” Djokovic has accepted the public apology and is now focusing on his next match against world number three Carlos Alcaraz in the quarter-finals. Jones expressed hope for a personal meeting with Djokovic, saying, "I genuinely feel for the Serbian fans and regret the disrespect caused." Instructions: THIS VIDEO MUST NOT BE EDITED FOR LENGTH TO COMBINE WITH OTHER CONTENT
Keywords: Broadcaster,Apologises,Novak Djokovic,Offensive,Comments,Australian Open,Tennis,Player,Reason,Serbian,Fans,Tony Jones,Press conference,Mockery,Sports
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