Channel Nine Removes Tony Jones from Wimbledon Coverage After Djokovic Controversy

Tony Jones, a longtime Channel Nine sports presenter, has been excluded from the network's Wimbledon coverage in 2025 following controversy stemming from his remarks about Novak Djokovic during the Australian Open. Jones referred to Djokovic as "overrated" and a "has-been," including the phrase "kick him out," which many interpreted as a reference to Djokovic's 2021 deportation from Australia. Djokovic described the comments as disrespectful and boycotted a courtside interview with Channel Nine until Jones issued a public apology, which Djokovic accepted. In response to the incident and growing sensitivity around cultural insensitivity in media commentary, Channel Nine decided to rely on its London bureau and commentators Todd Woodbridge, Alicia Molik, Sam McClure, and Jelena Dokic for Wimbledon coverage instead of Jones. The network emphasized its commitment to bringing people together through tennis and expressed regret over any offense caused. This move reflects a broader industry shift toward cautiousness in commentary to avoid division and controversy.