Novak Djokovic is no stranger to adversity at the Australian Open. The 37-year-old Serb has had his share of challenges in Melbourne over the years, from visa cancellations to rowdy crowds. But in his third round match on Friday night, it was a stomach bug, not politics or spectators, that threatened to derail his quest for a record-extending 25th grand slam singles title.
Despite falling ill midway through the second set against 26th seed Tomáš Macháč, Djokovic dug deep to grind out a 6-1, 6-4, 6-4 victory in 2 hours and 22 minutes on Rod Laver Arena. The win books his spot in the round of 16 as he seeks to claim his 10th Australian Open crown.
Djokovic Doubles Over But Not Out
Early in the second set, Djokovic began to look unwell, doubling over on court and burying his head on the changeovers. He called for the doctor and took some medication, but remarkably was able to maintain his high level of play despite his discomfort.
“I was slightly surprised to be honest with the result, to beat him straight sets,” Djokovic said after the match. The 37-year-old declined to elaborate on his illness, simply saying he was trying to catch his breath and “I’m not 19 anymore. I’m 19 times two, almost.”
Machac Proves a Worthy Foe
Despite Djokovic’s health woes, credit must also go to Macháč for providing stiff resistance in only the pair’s third meeting. The 24-year-old Czech has a potent and versatile backhand, great court coverage, and even defeated Djokovic in their last encounter.
For much of the match, the two men engaged in riveting, high-intensity baseline exchanges. Djokovic targeted Macháč’s serve as a weakness, winning nearly two-thirds of return points in the opening set. But once the rallies settled into a rhythm, it made for a brutal and engrossing contest.
“This is definitely the best match I’ve played in the tournament,” Djokovic said of his performance. “Definitely the best match I’ve played in the tournament.”
– Novak Djokovic
Animated Djokovic Finds New Foes
In addition to his illness and a dangerous opponent, Djokovic found other sources of frustration to fuel his famous intensity. He grew animated in exchanges with his player box, which this year features Andy Murray.
The 37-year-old also took issue with two automated line calls in the second set, offering exaggerated reactions of surprise. When a late third set call finally went his way, Djokovic gestured sarcastically towards a heckler in the crowd who had riled him up throughout the night.
Djokovic Marches On
A seeded showdown with World No. 29 Jiří Lehečka awaits in the fourth round as Djokovic continues his quest to reassert his dominance after a turbulent 2024 season. Though he may be feeling his age now, he finds a way time and again to survive and advance.
“What doesn’t kill Novak Djokovic makes him stronger,” wrote reporter Jack Snape, capturing the unmatched resilience of the Serbian superstar.
– Jack Snape, The Guardian
Indeed, with every obstacle he overcomes, every barrier he breaks, Djokovic only seems to grow in stature and cement his status as an all-time legend of the game. A bout of sickness slowed but could not stop him under the lights on Friday in Melbourne. One wonders what possibly could.
