Novak Djokovic has “acknowledged” an apology from Australian TV presenter Tony Jones as “insulting and offensive” comments towards the Serbian caused a storm ahead of his blockbuster Australian Open quarter-final against Carlos Alcaraz.

Jones publicly apologised to Djokovic and Serbian tennis fans after chanting: “Novak is overrated, Novak’s a has-been, Novak kick him out” before his third-round match against Jiri Lehacka.

Djokovic subsequently boycotted his post-match interview, although the 37-year-old has since turned his attentions to facing Alcaraz in the quarter-finals on Tuesday after Jones apologised on air and Channel Nine released a statement.

“Novak acknowledges the apology has been given in public as requested," a statement from Tennis Australia said. “He is is now moving on and focusing on his next match.”

Elsewhere at the Australian Open, Iga Swiatek raced through another straight-sets win to reach the quarter-finals in Melbourne for the first time since 2022, while local favourite Alex De Minaur is through to the last eight of his home grand slam and will play defending champion Jannik Sinner next.

Follow all of the latest news and scores from the Australian Open in our live blog below:

Australian Open 2025 - Day 9

• Australian Open continues as excitment builds to Djokovic v Alcaraz quarter-final

• Djokovic receives apology from Australian TV presenter over ‘offensive’ comments

• Djokovic explains why he boycotted Australian Open post-match interview

• Jannik Sinner battles through to quarter-finals after four-set win over Holger Rune

• Record-breaking Gael Monfils retires early in fourth set against Ben Shelton

• Iga Swiatek races through to quarter-finals with thumping win over Eva Lys

• Home favourite Alex de Minaur defeats Alex Michelsen in night session match

Australian Open order of play - Tuesday 21 January

14:51 , Jamie Braidwood

As the quarter-final stage of the Australian Open begins, all four matches in the men’s and women’s singles will be held back-to-back on Rod Laver Arena tomorrow. Djokovic v Alcaraz will follow the match between defending champion Aryna Sabalenka and Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova, which will not start before 8am UK time.

Rod Laver Arena - (all times UK/GMT)

From 12:30am: Coco Gauff vs Paula Badosa

Not before 3:00am: Tommy Paul vs Alexander Zverev

From 8am: Aryna Sabalenka vs Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova

Followed by: Novak Djokovic vs Carlos Alcaraz

Novak Djokovic receives apology from Australian TV presenter over ‘offensive’ comments

14:22 , Jamie Braidwood

An Australian TV presenter has publicly apologised to Novak Djokovic and Serbian tennis fans after the 10-time Australian Open champion boycotted his post-match interview on Sunday.

Djokovic revealed afterwards that his decision not to answer on-court questions in the customary manner following his fourth-round victory over Jiri Lehecka was in protest at comments made on host broadcaster Channel 9 by Tony Jones.

Jones mocked a group of chanting Djokovic fans behind him ahead of the Serbian’s third-round match by singing: “Novak is overrated, Novak’s a has-been, Novak kick him out.”

Australian TV host apologises to Novak Djokovic over ‘offensive’ comments

Novak Djokovic explains why he boycotted Australian Open post-match interview

13:52 , Jamie Braidwood

Novak Djokovic insists he boycotted a post-match interview at the Australian Open after claiming a journalist for an official broadcaster made “offensive” remarks towards him.

The 24-time Grand Slam champion, who maintains he is happy to receive a fine over his stance, also claimed Channel 9 broadcaster Tony Jones made a “mockery” of Serbian fans at Melbourne Park.

But Djokovic opted against a conversation and instead made a simple statement before being booed by some fans: “Thank you for being here tonight, I appreciate your presence and support and I'll see you in the next round.”

Novak Djokovic explains why he boycotted Australian Open post-match interview

Novak Djokovic responds to apology in wake of 'offensive' comments

13:22 , Jamie Braidwood

Novak Djokovic is satisfied with the apology issued by Australian TV presenter Tony Jones.

Djokovic has turned his attention to Tuesday’s blockbuster match against Carlos Alcaraz after Channel Nine said in a statement that it apologised “for any offense caused from comments made" while live on air.

“No harm was intended towards Novak or his fans,” the statement continued. “We look forward to further showcasing his Australian Open campaign at Melbourne Park.”

“Novak acknowledges the apology has been given in public as requested," read a statement issued Monday by Tennis Australia, "and is now moving on and focusing on his next match.”

Carlos Alcaraz on Novak Djokovic: 'He broke every record'

12:49 , Jamie Braidwood

Carlos Alcaraz admitted that he could not think about Novak Djokovic’s achievements on the tennis court ahead of facing the 24-time grand slam champion and 10-time Australian Open winner in the quarter-finals.

“If I think about everything he has done in tennis, I couldn't play. I mean, 24 grand slam titles, the most weeks at No. 1, everything. He almost broke every record in tennis. I'm trying not to think about that when I'm in the match.

“I'm just trying to beat him. I know my weapons. I know that I'm able to play a good tennis against him, I'm able to beat him. That's all I'm thinking when I'm facing him.

“I think what every player or the best players think when they face Novak, just playing and believing in their-selves.”

Australian Open: Alex de Minaur on facing Jannik Sinner in quarter-finals

12:23 , Jamie Braidwood

Alex de Minaur’s clash with defending champion and World No 1 Jannik Sinner will be the highlight match on Wednesday, particularly for the home fans in Melbourne.

"I did get to watch his match today. It was an interesting one - that's for sure. I'm looking forward to it.

“It's going to be an incredibly tough match and I'm going to have to do something I haven't done before, but why not start here!"

Australian Open: Alex de Minaur after reaching quarter-finals

12:02 , Jamie Braidwood

A pumped-up Alex de Minaur after reaching the Australian Open quarter-finals:

"It means the world. I love you guys too, so much. There is nothing that I want to do more than play well here, in Australia, in front of you guys. I'm glad I finally made it to the quarter-finals here, so let's go for bigger and better things. Come on!

“My whole career has been day-by-day, it hasn't been overnight. I've had to keep improving every year, in little increments, to get a little bit stronger and bigger. I've been working on getting more free points on my serve and a little bit more confidence. Consistency always pays off in the end."

Australian Open: Alex de Minaur completes men's quarter-final line-up

11:46 , Jamie Braidwood

Breakthrough at last for Alex de Minaur! The popular Australian is through to the quarter-finals of his home grand slam for the first time, after beating Alex Michelsen in straight sets to set up a clash with defending champion Jannik Sinner.

De Minaur had lost in the fourth round in each of the last three years, so this is a huge victory for the eighth seed and home favourite.

With it, the men’s quarter-finals are complete.

[1] Jannik Sinner vs Alex de Minaur [8]

Lorenzo Sonego vs Ben Shelton [21]

[7] Novak Djokovic vs Carlos Alcaraz [3]

[12] Tommy Paul vs Alexander Zverev [2]

Australian Open: Women's quarter-final line-up complete

11:16 , Jamie Braidwood

Eighth seed Emma Navarro claimed the final place in the women’s quarter-finals after beating ninth seed Daria Kasatkina 6-4 5-7 7-5. With it, the women’s quarter-final line-up is complete, with the top three seeds all still standing and looking strong.

[1] Aryna Sabalenka vs [27] Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova

[3] Coco Gauff vs [11] Paula Badosa

[19] Maddison Keys vs [28] Elina Svitolina

[8] Emma Navarro vs [2] Iga Swiatek

Australian Open: Alex de Minaur a set away from quarter-finals

11:12 , Jamie Braidwood

Alex de Minaur overcomes a wobble to move a set away from the quarter-finals of the Australian Open.

The eighth seed was broken, after making a double fault when break point down on 5-4 in the second set.

But he roars past Alex Michelsen in the deciding tiebreak, after it was finely poised at 5-5.

The winner here will play Jannik Sinner.

Australian Open: Novak Djokovic on Carlos Alcaraz clash

10:30 , Jamie Braidwood

As Novak Djokovic puts all his focus towards beating Carlos Alcaraz, the 37-year-old expects another “big battle” against his young rival.

“That has been the case in most of our matches where we faced each other,” Djokovic said. “Maybe just couple time it was quite one-sided; Wimbledon finals last year, he was the dominant force on the court, I had a really good match against him in the World Tour Finals in 2023.

“Other than that, we had some long battles, long exchanges. It reminds me of my matchups versus Nadal in terms of the intensity and the energy on the court.

“He's very dynamic, explosive player. Incredibly talented. Charismatic player. Great to watch; not that great to play against.”

Australian Open: Alex de Minaur takes opening set

10:09 , Jamie Braidwood

Alex de Minaur has made the perfect start on Rod Laver Arena and wins the opening set 6-0 against Alex Michelsen.

The Australian Open home favourite is bidding to reach the quarter-finals for the first time, after three successive fourth-round exits.

If he manages, De Minaur would also have reached the quarter-finals at the last four grand slams in a row, but his goal is making a first grand slam semi-final.

Iga Swiatek storms through to quarter-finals with win over Eva Lys

10:04

Iga Swiatek was once again in ruthless form as the second seed thrashed the lucky loser Eva Lys 6-0 6-1 to reach the quarter-finals for the first time since 2022.

Swiatek has dropped just 11 games this tournament and only two in her last two matches, following another 6-1 6-0 win over Emma Raducanu.

And Swiatek, who suffered early exits at the Australian Open in 2023 and 2024, believes there is still more to come.

"I'm still 23 years old, so there is a lot to improve always. I don't feel like I'm in my peak yet but matches like that definitely give me confidence. I feel like I'm playing a good game.

"Usually I don't feel comfortable with my game at the Australian Open, but this year it is a bit better. I'm just enjoying being on the court and off the court as well because I definitely have a good time here. Hopefully it's going to last even longer.

Monfils retires to bring unfortunate end to record-breaking run

09:48 , Jamie Braidwood

Record-breaking Gael Monfils retired from his Australian Open fourth round match against young American Ben Shelton, as the 38-year-old’s epic run in Melbourne came to an unfortunate end.

An ailing Monfils received a standing ovation as he left the court after trailing 6-7 7-6 6-7 1-0 early in the fourth set. The Frenchman, who last week became the oldest player to win an ATP tour title, had nothing left to give and struggled with a back injury after being dragged into a three-hour battle by the big-serving Shelton.

Monfils had rolled back the years at the Australian Open with his victories over fourth seed Taylor Fritz, Daniel Altmaier and Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard to become the oldest man to reach the fourth round in Melbourne since Roger Federer. He had also won eight matches in a row, following his surprise title in Auckland.

Monfils and Shelton smiled as they shook hands at the net and the 22-year-old was complimentary of the veteran’s efforts in the match.

Gael Monfils retires to bring unfortunate end to record-breaking Australian Open run

Ukraine's Elina Svitolina extends winning streak against Russian players

09:47 , Eleanor Crooks

Elina Svitolina was happy to bring some light to Ukraine with her victory over Russian Veronika Kudermetova in the fourth round of the Australian Open.

Svitolina, who has refused to shake hands with Russian or Belarusian opponents after matches since the start of the war nearly three years ago, recovered from a poor start to win 6-4 6-1 and reach her 12th grand slam quarter-final.

“This fighting spirit that I have is completely Ukrainian spirit that I try to show, that I try to represent, as well,” she said.

“Especially now these days in very difficult days for Ukraine. It’s almost been three years that the war is ongoing. Of course, it’s on a daily basis a very heavy rucksack that all Ukrainians have on their backs.

“For me to find a way to win matches, to find a way to bring a little light, a little win for Ukrainian people, is something that I feel I am responsible of. To bring the fight is the least that I can do.

“I feel like sometimes people, they forget that there’s still the war, that we still need help. Just for me, it’s very important to show the resilience, to show that I’m here to fight no matter what.”

Ukraine's Elina Svitolina extends winning streak against Russian players

Jannik Sinner had ‘big luck’ after feeling ‘dizzy’ in bizarre Australian Open win

09:42 , Eleanor Crooks

Ailing defending champion Jannik Sinner admitted he was fortunate to survive a fourth-round battle with Holger Rune at the Australian Open.

Sinner looked in deep trouble after losing the second set and he took a long medical timeout early in the third as he battled to stay on level terms.

But Rune was also feeling the heat and a bizarre delay at the beginning of the fourth set when Sinner broke the net with a serve also played into the Italian’s hands.

He eventually completed a 6-3 3-6 6-3 6-2 victory, saying in his on-court interview: “It was for sure very, very tough.”

Jannik Sinner had ‘big luck’ after feeling ‘dizzy’ in bizarre Australian Open win

Novak Djokovic responds to 'offensive' comments from Australian TV presenter

09:29 , Jamie Braidwood

Novak Djokovic is satisfied with the apology issued by Australian TV presenter Tony Jones.

Djokovic has turned his attention to Tuesday’s blockbuster match against Carlos Alcaraz after Channel Nine said in a statement that it apologised “for any offense caused from comments made" while live on air.

“No harm was intended towards Novak or his fans,” the statement continued. “We look forward to further showcasing his Australian Open campaign at Melbourne Park.”

“Novak acknowledges the apology has been given in public as requested," read a statement issued Monday by Tennis Australia, "and is now moving on and focusing on his next match.”

Novak Djokovic explains why he boycotted Australian Open post-match interview

09:27 , Jack Rathborn

Novak Djokovic insists he boycotted a post-match interview at the Australian Open after claiming a journalist for an official broadcaster made “offensive” remarks towards him.

The 24-time Grand Slam champion, who maintains he is happy to receive a fine over his stance, also claimed Channel 9 broadcaster Tony Jones made a “mockery” of Serbian fans at Melbourne Park.

But Djokovic opted against a conversation and instead made a simple statement before being booed by some fans: “Thank you for being here tonight, I appreciate your presence and support and I'll see you in the next round.”

Novak Djokovic explains why he boycotted Australian Open post-match interview

Novak Djokovic receives apology from Australian TV presenter over ‘offensive’ comments

09:27 , Eleanor Crooks

An Australian TV presenter has publicly apologised to Novak Djokovic and Serbian tennis fans after the 10-time Australian Open champion boycotted his post-match interview on Sunday.

Djokovic revealed afterwards that his decision not to answer on-court questions in the customary manner following his fourth-round victory over Jiri Lehecka was in protest at comments made on host broadcaster Channel 9 by Tony Jones.

Jones mocked a group of chanting Djokovic fans behind him ahead of the Serbian’s third-round match by singing: “Novak is overrated, Novak’s a has-been, Novak kick him out.”

Australian TV host apologises to Novak Djokovic over ‘offensive’ comments

Novak Djokovic responds to apology in wake of 'offensive' comments

15:12 , Jamie Braidwood

Novak Djokovic is satisfied with the apology issued by Australian TV presenter Tony Jones.

Djokovic has turned his attention to Tuesday’s blockbuster match against Carlos Alcaraz after Channel Nine said in a statement that it apologised “for any offense caused from comments made" while live on air.

“No harm was intended towards Novak or his fans,” the statement continued. “We look forward to further showcasing his Australian Open campaign at Melbourne Park.”

“Novak acknowledges the apology has been given in public as requested," read a statement issued Monday by Tennis Australia, "and is now moving on and focusing on his next match.”

Novak Djokovic receives apology from Australian TV presenter over ‘offensive’ comments

15:16 , Jamie Braidwood

An Australian TV presenter has publicly apologised to Novak Djokovic and Serbian tennis fans after the 10-time Australian Open champion boycotted his post-match interview on Sunday.

Djokovic revealed afterwards that his decision not to answer on-court questions in the customary manner following his fourth-round victory over Jiri Lehecka was in protest at comments made on host broadcaster Channel 9 by Tony Jones.

Jones mocked a group of chanting Djokovic fans behind him ahead of the Serbian’s third-round match by singing: “Novak is overrated, Novak’s a has-been, Novak kick him out.”

Novak Djokovic responds to apology controversy ahead of Carlos Alcaraz clash - live

Jannik Sinner had ‘big luck’ after feeling ‘dizzy’ in bizarre Australian Open win

15:11 , Jamie Braidwood

Ailing defending champion Jannik Sinner admitted he was fortunate to survive a fourth-round battle with Holger Rune at the Australian Open.

Sinner looked in deep trouble after losing the second set and he took a long medical timeout early in the third as he battled to stay on level terms.

But Rune was also feeling the heat and a bizarre delay at the beginning of the fourth set when Sinner broke the net with a serve also played into the Italian’s hands.

He eventually completed a 6-3 3-6 6-3 6-2 victory, saying in his on-court interview: “It was for sure very, very tough.

“I knew in my mind that also he had some very long matches so I tried to stay there mentally. I just tried to stay connected with my service games and then in the return games see what happens.”

Jannik Sinner had ‘big luck’ after feeling ‘dizzy’ in bizarre Australian Open win

Gael Monfils retires to bring unfortunate end to record-breaking Australian Open run

15:10 , Jamie Braidwood

Record-breaking Gael Monfils retired from his Australian Open fourth round match against young American Ben Shelton, as the 38-year-old’s epic run in Melbourne came to an unfortunate end.

An ailing Monfils received a standing ovation as he left the court after trailing 7-6 6-7 7-6 1-0 early in the fourth set. The Frenchman, who last week became the oldest player to win an ATP tour title, had nothing left to give and struggled with a back injury after being dragged into a three-hour battle by the big-serving Shelton.

Monfils had rolled back the years at the Australian Open with his victories over fourth seed Taylor Fritz, Daniel Altmaier and Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard to become the oldest man to reach the fourth round in Melbourne since Roger Federer. He had also won eight matches in a row, following his surprise title in Auckland at the start of the year.

Monfils had pushed his body to its limits since requiring five sets to beat Mpetshi Perricard in the opening round, and he admitted he was feeling sore before the match against Shelton began.

Gael Monfils retires to bring unfortunate end to record-breaking Australian Open run