Australian Open 2024: Novak Djokovic thumps Adrian Mannarino to make it to quarter finals

The Serbian legend Novak Djokovic made a rare daytime appearance at the Australian Open 2024 on Sunday as he secured a dominant victory over the marathon man Adrian Mannarino. The 10-time champion nearly achieved a 'triple bagel' before ultimately winning 6-0, 6-0, 6-3 to advance to the quarter-finals. Djokovic was granted an early session slot at Melbourne Park for the first time since 2021 and had acknowledged earlier in the week that he was dealing with a viral infection. 

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Despite visible signs of coughing and occasional heavy breathing during the match, the world number one's health concerns did not affect his performance. With the roof at Rod Laver Arena closed due to rain, Djokovic secured his 32nd consecutive match victory at the Australian Open and reached his 58th Grand Slam quarter-final, equaling the all-time record held by Swiss maestro Roger Federer.

"The way I played today, I don't mind playing in the day, to be honest. It's no secret I like to play at 7 p.m. but it was not too bad today at all," Djokovic said who is looking for his 25th Grand Slam so that he can go past Margaret Court.

One of the best I've played in a while: Djokovic

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Crafty left-hander Mannarino who is known for his ability to trouble even the best players with his clever shot selection, faced a tough challenge against the world number 1. Despite putting up a strong fight in the opening game, Mannarino found himself down a set in just 33 minutes. The legendary Tennis player showing his trademark intensity, let out a roar after securing an early break in the second set.

Djokovic further solidified his dominance by holding serve in a crucial third game after a marathon with six deuces. Although Mannarino managed to win a game early in the third set, preventing a rare "triple bagel" (6-0 6-0 6-0), Djokovic closed out the victory. The Serbian tennis star described it as one of his best performances and expressed satisfaction with the outcome.

"Yeah, after the first two sets, one of the best I've played in a while. I really wanted to lose that game in the third set because the tension was building up in the stadium. I just needed to get that one out of the way so I could refocus on what I need to do to close out the match. I played great from the first to the last point,” he said.