Novak Djokovic and British broadcaster Piers Morgan have once again found themselves in the crosshairs of tennis fans after their recent interview sparked controversy online. Despite Morgan publicly apologizing to the Serbian tennis great for his harsh words during the 2022 “anti-vaxx” controversy, both men have landed in hot water once again over their comments about Jannik Sinner’s doping case.
Their remarks drew a fierce wave of backlash on social media, with many accusing both men of hypocrisy and insensitivity.
Novak Djokovic’s Surprising Decision To Reconnect With Piers Morgan
Back in January 2022, Djokovic became the face of one of the most controversial moments in sports when his Australian visa was canceled ahead of the Australian Open. The Serbian star’s medical exemption for his unvaccinated status was rejected by Australian authorities, resulting in his detention and eventual deportation.
The ordeal made international headlines and ignited fierce debates about athletes’ rights and the ethics of vaccine mandates.
Among Djokovic’s most outspoken critics at the time was none other than British journalist Morgan, who repeatedly condemned him on social media and television, calling him a “Covid rule cheat,” an “immigration form liar,” and an “anti-vaxxer icon.” Morgan’s words carried weight, shaping public perception of Djokovic during one of the lowest points of his career.
Fast-forward to November 2025, when Djokovic and Morgan finally sat down face-to-face on Morgan’s show for a highly publicized interview. The broadcast began with Morgan opening by saying, “I’m going to start by making an apology… I was very censorious about you over the COVID scandal that you got caught up in.” He acknowledged using “intemperate language” and expressed regret for the tone of his earlier commentary.
Djokovic responded with composure and gratitude. “I appreciate that very much… for your honesty, thank you so much. It speaks volumes about the person that you are,” he replied. The Serb also took the opportunity to clarify his position, stating, “I was never a proponent of anti-vax or pro-vax. I was always freedom of choice.”
However, what could have ended as a conciliatory interview took a sharp turn when the discussion shifted to Sinner’s doping suspension. Djokovic drew a parallel between the cloud that followed him after the 2022 incident and the scrutiny surrounding the young Italian star, who tested positive twice for the banned substance Clostebol last year and served a three-month suspension in early 2025.
“When this happened I was shocked honestly,” Djokovic said. “I do think that he didn’t do it on purpose. But the way the whole case was handled has so many red flags.”
Novak Djokovic on Jannik Sinner, ‘I think he didn’t do it on purpose, but, of course he is responsible’
Novak: “When this happened I was shocked honestly. I do think that he didn’t do it on purpose. But the way the whole case was handled is so many red flags.”
Piers Morgan:… pic.twitter.com/dZmAVB4H59
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) November 11, 2025
Morgan then added, “If he’d been #500 in the world, I think he would’ve been banned.” Djokovic appeared to agree, responding, “That’s exactly… the lack of transparency. The inconsistency. The convenience of the ban coming between the Slams so he doesn’t miss out… it’s just very, very odd.”
The 24-time Grand Slam champion elaborated further, pointing to what he felt was a systemic problem in tennis. “You could hear so many other players, both male and female, who had some similar situations coming out in the media and complaining that it was preferential treatment. I want to believe him… I think he didn’t do it on purpose, but of course he is responsible. Because those are the rules; you are responsible when something like this happens.”
Djokovic also expressed empathy for Sinner, acknowledging that the Italian had handled the scrutiny with maturity and resilience. But fans were far less forgiving.
How Did Fans React to Djokovic and Morgan’s Exchange on Social Media?
As clips of the interview circulated online, tennis followers flooded X with heated reactions. One user wrote, “Nahhh the audacity from him LOOOL. Same guy who tried to get a medical exemption in AO 22. You think if he was #500, he can do that or something?”
Another commented, “I know he’s not hating, but the whole case was beyond transparent. He took responsibility and dealt with it in a mature way. What else can he do about it?”
Some were quick to criticize both men for reopening old wounds, with one fan writing, “Oh well. An itw with Morgan… Well we should have seen it coming.”
MORE: ‘Wasn’t He Critical of Novak Djokovic’s Position?’ — Fans Left Fuming as Piers Morgan Teases Interview
Others questioned Djokovic’s choice of interviewer, suggesting that the very act of appearing on Morgan’s show was a misstep. “I don’t know why Novak is doing this interview ,” one user posted, while another said, “You two blokes should keep quiet. Jannik has paid his dues and did it with grace and dignity.”
A particularly scathing remark read, “The biggest red flag is him accepting an interview with Piers Morgan.” Another fan piled on, questioning Djokovic’s choice to appear on Morgan’s show, calling it hypocritical to engage with someone who once labeled him “a cheat, liar, and antivaxxer.”
