Novak Djokovic believes players were asked to push their physical limits at the Australian Open on Thursday after opponent Gael Monfils complained of suffering heat-stroke. The thermometer edged towards 40C in the shade as Djokovic and Monfils took to a sun-baked Rod Laver Arena for their second-round match, which the six-time champion eventually won 4-6 6-3 6-1 6-3. Monfils began to really suffer during the second set, repeatedly doubling over and not even attempting to return serve during one game. Novak Djokovic and Gael Monfils. While Monfils struggled with the conditions, Djokovic fought to try to find his game.

Source: Evening echo January 18, 2018 12:11 UTC