Djokovic Overcomes Health Scare to Reach Australian Open Last 16

Novak Djokovic has advanced to the Australian Open fourth round with a convincing 6-1, 6-4, 6-4 win over Tomas Machac. Despite requiring a medical timeout, Djokovic demonstrated his endurance and determination.

Novak Djokovic delivered a dominant performance on Friday, soaring into the Australian Open fourth round with a convincing win over Tomas Machac. The 37-year-old, a 10-time Melbourne champion, demonstrated why he remains a force to be reckoned with in the tennis world.

Djokovic's victory over the 26th-seeded Czech player was a statement of intent, as he dispelled doubts about his ability to compete at the highest level. Despite requiring a medical break and using an inhaler, Djokovic powered through the match, winning 6-1, 6-4, 6-4 in two hours and 22 minutes.

The win marked Djokovic's 66th appearance in the last 16 of a Grand Slam, leaving him just three behind all-time leader Roger Federer. Djokovic's impressive record also puts him well ahead of Rafael Nadal, who has reached the last 16 on 54 occasions.

With new coach not being the case as Andy Murray was again courtside offering encouragement, Djokovic started the match with a steely look in his eye.

The match progressed with serve until Novak Djokovic sensed an opportunity in game four, coming to the net to earn two break points and converting on the second to take a 3-1 lead. This sparked a strong run from the veteran, who maintained the pressure to claim the next three games and the set.

After being broken on his first serve in the second set, Djokovic quickly broke back but then required medical treatment on court while leading 2-1. The Serb used an inhalometer inhaler before resuming play, and then broke again to take a 3-2 lead. He maintained his focus to take a two-set lead, celebrating with a fist pump and loud exclamation to the crowd. When asked about the medical timeout, Djokovic explained: “I was trying to catch my breath. I'm not 19 anymore. More like 19 times two, almost.”

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— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 17, 2025

Djokovic left the court between sets, and upon his return, a Machac double fault allowed him to take a 2-0 lead, ultimately paving the way for a convincing win. This victory marks a significant step for Djokovic, who was beaten in the Melbourne semi-finals in 2024 by eventual champion Jannik Sinner. Notably, Djokovic failed to collect a major last year for the first time since 2017.