Australian Open 2025 Novak Djokovic defeats Tomas Machac, worried about stomach injury

Novak Djokovic struggled physically during his straight-sets victory over Tomas Machac, but still ominously labeled the contest his “best match” so far at this year’s Australian Open.

With the 6-1, 6-4, 6-4 victory over the Czech, Djokovic advanced to the fourth round at Melbourne Park for the 17th time in his storied career.

However, it was not all without problems with Djokovic battling an illness.

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After a lengthy battle to start the second set, Djokovic crouched several times as he struggled to catch his breath between points.

Djokovic then began clutching his stomach.

While his tennis didn’t falter, he seemed uncomfortable.

In commentary, John Millman described Djokovic’s behavior during the breaks as “very unusual” for the 10-time champion.

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With straps placed on Djokovic’s lower back, it was thought that the doubling up could be a result of his stomach compensating for another problem.

“I was a bit surprised, to be honest, with the result,” Djokovic said in his post-match interview.

“Beating him in straight sets when he was a break up early in the second (set) when I struggled physically there.

“I just somehow managed to turn things around, hold my serve when I needed to – just a couple of points decided the second set that could have gone his way and then maybe the outcome of the match would have been different.”

After the third game in the second set, Djokovic called the physio before the on-court doctor was brought out.

Djokovic received no manual treatment, but presented an asthma puff and some medicine.

“In the third (set) I felt fresh and I moved really well. Overall, I’m very happy with my game,” Djokovic said.

“Of course there is always something to improve and work on, but this is definitely the best match I have played in the tournament.”

Asked what was worrying him, Djokovic explained that he was just out of breath.

“I was trying to catch my breath,” he said.

“I fought, I’m not 19 anymore.”

After his response was interrupted by a shout from a member of the crowd, Djokovic did his best to allay any concerns.

“One drink will fix anything that happens physically,” he said with a laugh.

Djokovic will next face no. 24th seed Jiri Lehecka in the final 16 on Sunday 19 January.