MELBOURNE (Reuters) - Novak Djokovic overcame persistent hamstring issues, heckling from fans and pesky French qualifier Enzo Couacaud on Thursday to reach the Australian Open third round, but women’s second seed Ons Jabeur crashed out.
On a dramatic day four, where several high profile men’s players were eliminated, Djokovic defied the obstacles to thwart 190th-ranked Couacaud 6-1, 6-7 (5), 6-2, 6-0 in three hours and four minutes.
“There was a lot happening tonight and Enzo deserves credit, he played some really great tennis, especially in the second set,” Djokovic said.
In a fiery match, Djokovic continued his tempestuous relationship with Australian fans after being jeered by a group of colorfully dressed spectators.
As he has done numerously in his legendary career, Djokovic lifted in adversity and quickly ended Couacaud’s resistance to book a third round clash with Bulgaria’s Grigor Dimitrov.
Djokovic’s troublesome hamstring, which he injured ahead of the tournament, was heavily strapped and he required a medical timeout late in the second set.
But 35-year-old Djokovic, who hit 63 winners, marched on as he seeks his 10th Australian Open title and record-equalling 22nd Grand Slam trophy.