Novak Djokovic won against Grigor Dimitrov in three straight sets to qualify for the Australian Open Round of 16. According to PPH bookie sources, he managed to win the match despite suffering from a hamstring injury.
Djokovic, favored to win the tournament after the elimination of Rafael Nadal and Casper Ruud, entered Saturday’s match with a hamstring issue but quickly allayed fans’ concerns by breaking Dimitrov’s serve in the opening game.
However, after winning a problematic tiebreak, Djokovic pulled up feeling his hamstring and had to take a medical timeout.
Djokovic returned from the locker room refreshed and quickly claimed the second set against Dimitrov.
Novak Djokovic Advanced to Round of 16
The Bulgarian had won every set in the first two rounds without losing a single game. However, he was no match for the unstoppable Djokovic. Dimitrov lost the match after having played well in the opening set.
According to sportsbook pay per head sources, he served 15 aces and played beautiful strokes. However, he also committed 50 unforced errors during the match. Djokovic is a tenacious player who can punish his opponents even when hurt.
It was a sloppy win. However, Djokovic was able to stave off Dimitrov despite his fitness issues. He won in straight sets after a grueling third set in which he suffered five service breaks.
According to betting directory sources, Djokovic’s next opponent in the round of 16 will be Alex de Minaur of Australia, who, at age 23, will have the support of his enthusiastic home crowd.
