Channel 9 Sports Anchor Excluded from Wimbledon Coverage

After making controversial remarks about Novak Djokovic during the Australian Open, Tony Jones from Channel 9 will not be part of the coverage for Wimbledon this year.

Instead, the network plans to use its London Bureau and feature tennis experts Todd Woodbridge, Alicia Morik, Sam McClure, and Jerena Dokick for commentary, as reported by GB News.

In January, live from Melbourne Park, Jones commented, “Welcome to Melbourne Park where you can see Novak Djokovic fans; they have a full voice. The chorus is very extraordinary.” His words came as he stood among a passionate crowd of Djokovic supporters.

Jones then sang his own chant: “Novak, he’s overrated. Novak is Bean. Novak, I’ll drive him out. Boy, I’m happy I can’t hear me.” These remarks seemingly didn’t sit well with Djokovic.

Following the comments, the 24-time major champion rejected an interview request from Jones and Channel Nine, insisting on an apology for what he perceived as rudeness.

Djokovic expressed his discontent, stating, “The Channel Nine here in Australia has been laughing at Serb fans and making insulting and offensive comments against me.”

In response, Jones later issued an apology, noting he meant no harm and that his comments were intended as an extension of humor in light of the vibrant atmosphere around Serbian fans.

His earlier comments drew additional attention since Jones himself faced deportation from Australia back in early 2022 due to vaccination issues.

The 63-year-old, who has been a regular presence during Wimbledon for Channel 9, will not be part of the coverage this year, instead remaining in Melbourne.