Novak Djokovic was seen blowing a kiss to Andy Murray as the tennis icon powered his way into the third round of the Australian Open on Wednesday morning.
The Serb is aiming to win a record 25th Grand Slam title Down Under this winter, a total that would move him ahead of Margaret Court in the history books.
Djokovic was tested at times on Tuesday, with the 37-year-old forced to show the resilience that has made him a legend of the sport.
But he was still able to advance, with the former world No 1 winning 6-1, 6-7, 6-3, 6-2 to book his place in the third round.
Novak Djokovic was seen blowing a kiss to Andy Murray as the tennis icon powered his way into the third round of the Australian Open on Wednesday morning
REUTERS
Djokovic has drafted Murray into his coaching team as he looks to win an 11th Australian Open title.
And the tennis legend was seen blowing a kiss to his close friend, who was sat courtside as the action unfolded.
Murray was delighted to see Djokovic going through, with the Briton seen raising his fist in celebration.
To make the day even better for the Serb, he’s also now made history after appearing in his 430th Grand Slam match.
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Djokovic will need to perform better than this if he’s to go all the way, especially given how Carlos Alcaraz and remain favourites.
Yet he’s still one of the best players in the world and only a fool would write him off.
Djokovic was asked about playing in his 430th Grand Slam match after beating Faria, with the 24-time major winner moving clear of Roger Federer.
He responded by saying: “Grand Slams, of course, they are the pillars of our sport.
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“They mean everything for the history of the sport. … Definitely the most important tournaments.
“I’m just blessed to be making another record, I guess, today.”
Djokovic also hailed Faria, saying: “He was playing lights-out tennis. … I had to weather the storm.
“I think I responded very well in the third and, particularly fourth, (sets).”
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Novak Djokovic was cheered on by Andy Murray at the Australian Open on Wednesday morning
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Meanwhile, another player to advance was Alcaraz.
The Spaniard, who is aiming to win the Australian Open for the first time, managed 14 aces in his 6-0, 6-1, 6-4 win over Yoshihito Nishioka.
Alcaraz was clearly pleased with his display and wrote on a camera lens at the Margaret Court Arena: “Am I a serve bot?”
And the 21-year-old admitted he was delighted with his performance on Wednesday as he booked his place in round three.
Novak Djokovic was pleased to come through unscathed at the Australian Open on Wednesday
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“I felt more comfortable on it, yes. I think the serve’s about confidence and feelings,” he said.
“Today I felt great. The throw of the ball was great today, which it helps a lot in the serve today.”
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