MELBOURNE (Reuters) - Defending champion Novak Djokovic faces a fitness battle to continue in the Australian Open after suffering what he described as a "muscle tear" during a five-set win over Taylor Fritz on Friday. Djokovic disappeared off Rod Laver Arena for treatment and needed further attention during the third set. His 7-6(1) 6-4 3-6 4-6 6-2 win was his 78th career match victory at the Australian Open but whether or not he can go for number 79 against Milos Raonic on Sunday is doubtful. I don't know I'm going to step out on to the court or not. "Obviously with the bad news that we got today, everybody knew that midnight is going to be the deadline.

Source: The Star February 12, 2021 14:48 UTC