Novak Djokovic was called ‘overrated’ and a ‘has been’ by Channel 9 broadcaster Tony Jones during the Australian Open.
Novak Djokovic, Tony Jones (Images via X, 7NEWS)
Channel 9 broadcaster Tony Jones has been at the receiving end of criticism due to the comments on Novak Djokovic during the 2025 Australian Open. Serbia’s Davis Cup captain, Viktor Troicki, condemned Jones and called for a lifetime ban from covering tennis.
The veteran presenter, on a live broadcast, turned toward a group of Serbian fans at Melbourne Park and called Djokovic ‘overrated’ and a ‘has been’. His ‘kick him out’ chant was perceived by many to be a reference to Djokovic’s deportation saga in 2022. Djokovic demanded an apology after refusing to give his on-court interview following his straight-set win over Jiri Lehecka in the fourth round.
Jones, who, in his defense, had stated that he meant it as a joke, issued a public apology which the 24-year-old Grand Slam champion accepted. But this didn’t end discussion and debate as many, including Troicki, think a presenter like Jones should be banned.
Troicki had also slammed the crowd that booed Djokovic when was leaving the court after retiring mid-match against Alexander Zverev in the semifinal. Djokovic injured his hamstring due to which he is not participating in Serbia’s Davis Cup Qualifiers First Round tie against Denmark in Copenhagen.
Novak Djokovic tried to fight through the pain, but injury had finally defeated him, ending his 2025 Australian Open campaign.
In the post-match conference, Djokovic confirmed he had a muscle tear and planned to get it examined upon returning to Europe. ESPN’s Chris Fowler reported that the World No. 7 is expected to miss a few months due to a torn hamstring and aims to return for the 2025 French Open in May.
Serena Williams‘ former coach Rennae Stubbs also discussed the severity of the 37-year-old’s injury in her podcast with former WTA pro Andrea Petkovic.
If Djokovic is out for two months, he will miss the Qatar Open next month, the Indians Wells and the Miami Open in March. He is expected to recover completely before the French Open where he lifted the title three times, but due to his meniscus tear on his right knee, he had to withdraw from the quarterfinal last year.
