Novak Djokovic powered into the Australian Open quarterfinals on Sunday, setting up a highly anticipated showdown with Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz. The Serbian star defeated Jiri Lehecka in straight sets, 6-3, 6-4, 7-6(4), showcasing his quest for a record 25th Grand Slam title and 11th victory in Melbourne.
Despite his on-court success, Djokovic stirred conversation off the court by declining an on-court interview with the tournament’s official broadcaster. The decision came after Channel Nine’s reporter Tony Jones made remarks that Djokovic perceived as mocking toward him and his fans during an earlier match.
Jones had jestingly commented, “Novak, he’s overrated, Novak’s a has-been. Novak, kick him out. Oh, I’m glad they can’t hear me.” Djokovic expressed his displeasure, stating he had not received a public apology from the broadcaster and would continue to boycott their interviews. “Since they’re official broadcasters, I chose not to give interviews for Channel Nine,” Djokovic told reporters. “I told [tournament director] Craig Tiley, ‘If you guys want to fine me for not giving an on-court interview, that’s okay.’ I’ll accept that, because this is something that needs to be done.”
In response, Tony Jones told news.com.au, “It was good-natured banter with the Serbian fans. We’ve been doing it all tournament and it’s all in good fun. This is the Happy Slam.”
On the court, Carlos Alcaraz continued his impressive run, advancing after his opponent, Britain’s Jack Draper, retired due to injury with the Spaniard leading 7-5, 6-1. The upcoming quarterfinal match between Djokovic and Alcaraz is highly anticipated, pitting experience against youth.
Elsewhere in the tournament, Germany’s Alexander Zverev secured his spot in the quarterfinals by defeating France’s Ugo Humbert 6-1, 2-6, 6-3, 6-2. Zverev will face America’s Tommy Paul, who dominated Spain’s Alejandro Davidovich Fokina with a 6-1, 6-1, 6-1 victory.
The stage is set for an exciting climax at the Australian Open, with top talents vying for the coveted Grand Slam title.
Reference(s):
Djokovic, Alcaraz set up blockbuster quarterfinal at Australian Open
cgtn.com
