Djokovic passes Tiafoe test

Thursday, 11 February 2021 00:31 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Serbia's Novak Djokovic signs an autograph after winning his second round match against Frances Tiafoe of the US -Reuters

MELBOURNE (Reuters): Novak Djokovic's aura of invincibility at Rod Laver Arena wavered under the pressure of Frances Tiafoe on Wednesday but the Serbian rose to the challenge to claim a tough 6-3 6-7(3) 7-6(2) 6-3 win and reach the third round of the Australian Open.

The double-defending champion has rarely been tested so early at his favourite Grand Slam but he had his hands full against American Tiafoe, whose sparkling tennis revived memories of his exhilarating run to the 2019 quarter-finals. “Very tough match,” said a relieved Djokovic on court, his voice faint and hoarse from the battle.

“Also difficult conditions. While we had sun on the court it was very, very warm.I want to give a hand to Frances again for a great fight. It was a fantastic match.”

Tiafoe earned a code violation for an audible obscenity before bowing out with a double-fault on match point. Djokovic is unbeaten on the Melbourne Park centre court since an injury-hampered fourth round defeat to South Korea's Chung Hyeon in the 2018 tournament.