Djokovic calls the Australian Open his “second residence”, such has been his dominance through the years, and this was one other masterful show when he noticed off the youngest challenger at Rod Laver Enviornment.
The win means the massive Serb has but to lose in Melbourne since a fourth-round defeat by South Korean Chung Hyeon in 2018.
With the match beginning round 17:00 native time in a temperature of 31C, Djokovic created eight break factors within the opening set however turned more and more agitated as he couldn’t take any of them.
The 24-time main champion – who regarded overheated, often utilizing ice towels and shouting at his crew – was virtually punished when Fritz created two set factors at 6-5 with a surprising forehand winner down the road.
Nevertheless, Djokovic regained his composure to avoid wasting them and set the stage for him to leap into the tie-break.
Aided by Fritz lacking a easy volley for 1-0, Djokovic rapidly asserted his authority and took the opening set after 84 minutes.
The 26-year-old American, who had misplaced all eight earlier conferences with Djokovic, responded bravely.
A break of serve within the first sport of the second set, earlier than preventing off seven break factors, allowed Fritz to degree the match.
However Fritz started to be hampered by a foot downside and Djokovic, trying robust as situations cooled, broke twice to win the third set.
Now absolutely in management, Djokovic was underneath little stress on his serve and when he broke for 4-2 within the fourth, the match gave the impression to be headed for a conclusion.
Fritz rallied as soon as extra, hitting straight again to take Djokovic's serve, however the Serb broke once more earlier than serving exhausting.
“The break level conversion was actually poor, however I believe on the finish of the day I used to be in a position to break it when it mattered within the third and fourth set,” Djokovic stated.
“I adjusted my sport in all probability in the midst of the third set till the tip.”
