Novak Djokovic played 'best match of the tournament', reached fourth round for 17th time

The former world number 1, Novak Djokovic, created an entrance to the fourth round for the 17th time when he took away the win against Tomas Machac in three continuous sets 6-1, 6-4, 6-4 at the Australian Open on Friday. At the end of the first set, Novak Djokovic pulled his upper abdomen, though it was not clear what the problem was.

The Serbian called the physio in the second set and had to head off for treatment at the end of it. But despite these physical setbacks, the 37-year-old Serbian prevailed over the 26th-seeded Czech player in a match lasting two hours and 22 minutes at Rod Laver Arena.

Djokovic said in a post-match interview, "I think I played really well, honestly. I am very happy with my game. I am a bit surprised with the result, beating him in straight sets. He got broken early in the second set. I struggled physically. This is because I am not a 19-year-old anymore."

He further said, "I somehow managed to capitalize on the opportunity, I held my serve when I needed to. Some points actually decided the set, which could have gone in his favor. Then the result of the match could have been different. Overall in the third set I was feeling fresh and playing really well. I am really happy with my game. There is always something to work on, but it was definitely my best match of the tournament."

The way Djokovic kept his composure and performed well in the crucial moments will boost his confidence. This is the reason why he is comfortably entering the second week of his favorite major.

With world number three Carlos Alcaraz joining the draw, Djokovic is now one match away from a potential quarterfinal clash with the Spaniard. With his brilliant performance in the third-round match on Friday, Djokovic has reached the fourth round of a Grand Slam for the 66th time. This is his 77th appearance in a major tournament. He is also the second man to reach this stage of the Australian Open at the age of 37 or older since 1988.