The best tennis player of Serbia, Novak Djokovic (No. 8 ATP), refused to give the traditional post-match interview at the Australian Open due to a riot against Channel 9, the official broadcaster of the tournament. Having beaten Czech Jiri Lehechka (No. 24 ATP) in the fourth round 6:3, 6:4, 7:6(4), the 37-year-old native of Belgrade thanked the audience for their support, returned the microphone to former world number one Jim Courier, and left to sign autographs.

Earlier, Channel 9 presenter Tony Jones spoke unflatteringly about Djokovic and Serbian fans on air. During the previous game, the journalist broadcast against the backdrop of the Serb's cheering fans, who were chanting "

Jones also intoned: " He's already in the past. Get him out of here" And then he added: “It’s good that they don’t hear me.”.

His comments went viral and reached the Serbian tennis star. Despite Jones' apology to a limited audience, Djokovic decided not to cooperate with Channel 9, which he explained later at a press conference. He emphasized that he has no complaints against Courier or the Australian fans, but expects certain actions from the TV channel.

Djokovic also said that he would understand if the organizers fined him for refusing to give an interview..

" He talked to my agent and team. I have a great relationship with Craig.. I think he's a great guy who always tries to help players and understand what they need. So I wanted to make sure he understood my position and the reasons for my behavior. So I told him, " Because I believe that I could not do otherwise" That’s all,” said the Serbian athlete.