"Novak Djokovic could be President of Serbia, that possibility got even bigger" - Patrick McEnroe hails Serb's handling of Tony Jones fiasco
Patrick McEnroe recently shared his views about the ongoing controversy between Novak Djokovic and Tony Jones. The former ATP pro backed the Serb for his reluctance to take anything against his fans and countrymen. This statement followed Jones's apology for the tennis legend's strict reaction.
Novak Djokovic shared earlier that Channel Nine's reporter's comments were not only against the Serbians but also insulted him personally. Along with that, he also denied giving a customary on-court interview after his commendable victory over Jiri Lehecka.
In a conversation with former WTA pro Mary Jo Fernandez at the ESPN studio, Patrick McEnroe firmly backed Novak Djokovic's bold stance for his countrymen's dignity and said:
"All I have to say is good for Novak for speaking out because that too me was just an idiotic statement, an idiotic comment by Tony. Novak has every right to be annoyed. I mean he could be president of Serbia and they talked about that possibility and it just got even greater, with the way he handled that at his pride for his people in his country. He's literally an icon in his own country as well he should be. So he had every right to take that stand that he did," he said (1:20 onwards).
Currently preparing for his quarterfinal showdown against Carlos Alcaraz, Novak Djokovic decided to practice in an indoor court at Melbourne Park. Although the Australian commentator extended an apology for his harsh comments, it seems like the Serb has shifted his focus towards winning the 11th title on Rod Laver Arena.
Novak Djokovic accepts the apology from Tony Jones
Novak Djokovic gave his nod to the heartfelt apology extended by Tony Jones. The renowned commentator unveiled reaching out to the Serb's camp and extending an apology for the disrespect. Jones not only apologized to the 24-time Grand Slam winner but to all of his fans in Serbia. Amid this, Tennis Australia made it clear that the 10-time champion has accepted the apology.
"Novak acknowledges the apology has been given in public as requested, and is now moving on and focusing on his next match," Tennis Australia said in a recent statement.
Djokovic now looks forward to extending his Australian Open campaign with the high-stakes quarterfinal showdown against Carlos Alcaraz on Tuesday. Leading the head-to-head table with a slender 4-3 margin, the Serb is determined to break records by chasing the 25th major title of his career.