Djokovic Displays ‘Top Match of the Tournament’ Despite Challenges to Defeat Machac in Straight Sets
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Synopsis
On January 17 in Melbourne, former World No.1 Novak Djokovic showcased resilience against Tomas Machac, winning 6-1, 6-4, 6-4 to reach the fourth round of the Australian Open for the 17th time, despite physical challenges during the match.
Key Takeaways
- Djokovic wins against Machac in straight sets.
- He faced physical difficulties yet managed to secure the victory.
- This marks his 17th fourth-round appearance at the Australian Open.
- Djokovic expressed satisfaction with his performance.
- He is one match away from meeting Carlos Alcaraz.
Melbourne, Jan 17 (NationPress) Former World No.1 Novak Djokovic triumphed over adversity as the ten-time champion claimed a decisive 6-1, 6-4, 6-4 victory against Tomas Machac, securing his spot in the fourth round of the Australian Open for the 17th time on Friday.
Djokovic indicated discomfort in his upper abdomen towards the conclusion of the first set, although the exact issue remained unclear. He summoned the physio during the second set and sought treatment at its conclusion. Nevertheless, despite facing physical hurdles, the 37-year-old Serbian exhibited resilience, overpowering the Czech 26th seed from the baseline to achieve a comprehensive win in a match lasting two hours and 22 minutes at the Rod Laver Arena.
“I believe I played exceptionally well. I’m quite pleased with my performance. I’m somewhat surprised by the outcome, winning in straight sets. He had a break advantage early in the second, which made it tough for me physically. I had to catch my breath; I’m not 19 anymore,” Djokovic remarked.
“I managed to turn the match around, held my serve when it mattered most. A few key points really shifted the momentum of that set, which could have gone his way, resulting in a different match outcome. Overall in the third set, I felt revitalized and moved excellently. I’m really satisfied with my performance. There’s always room for improvement, but this was undoubtedly my best match of the tournament,” Djokovic added in the post-match interview.
Djokovic’s ability to maintain composure and perform under pressure serves as a significant confidence boost as he progresses into the second week of his favorite Grand Slam. With World No. 3 Carlos Alcaraz potentially in his draw, Djokovic is now just one match away from a possible quarterfinal clash with the Spaniard.
Following his impressive performance in Friday’s third-round match, Djokovic has reached the fourth round of a Grand Slam for the 66th time in 77 appearances at major tournaments. He also becomes the second man to reach this stage of the Australian Open at the age of 37 or older since 1988.
