New Delhi: Novak Djokovic suffered a shock defeat against Hyeon Chung in the fourth round of Australian Open 2018. The Serb lost 6-7, 5-7, 6-7 to Chung, who becomes the first Korean through to the quarter-final of any slam.
Six-time champion Djokovic was seen in pain at times after having treatment to his right elbow after the first set, in which he battled back from 4-0 deficit but lost the tie-break.
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Djokovic, who missed the second half of the 2017 season with an elbow injury, was troubled by the same issue at regular intervals in the match, as he served nine double faults and sent numerous shots outside the lines.
However, the 30-year old fought back bravely before succumbing to a 7-6 (4), 7-5, 7-6 (3) defeat in three hours and 25 minutes on Rod Laver Arena.
Meanwhile, it was a dream come true for the 21-year-old Chung, who after his win said, “When I was young I’m just trying to copy Novak because he’s my idol.”
“I can’t believe this tonight, dreams come true tonight,” added the world No. 58.
The South Korean will next face Tennys Sandgren in the quarter-finals after the American’s shock victory over fifth seed Dominic Thiem.