Novak Djokovic has saved a match point on his way to beating world number 33 Sebastian Korda in an epic Adelaide International final at Memorial Drive.
The 21-time major singles champion produced a nerveless overhead smash to save championship point during the second set of Sunday night's clash.
He was pushed all the way by his gutsy American opponent, before prevailing 6-7 (8/10), 7-6 (7/3), 6-4 in a match that lasted three hours and eight minutes.
Djokovic tweaked his left hamstring during Saturday's semifinal win over Daniil Medvedev but was able to push through the setback during the men's tournament decider against Korda.
The win is a major confidence boost for Djokovic as he seeks a 10th Australian Open title later this month.
The victory also extended his winning streak in Australia to 34 matches, stretching over five years.
Korda, who father Petr took out the 1998 Australian Open title, won over plenty of fans with an astounding effort against Djokovic.
The first set was an absorbing affair, featuring numerous momentum swings and set points to both players.
Korda sealed the crucial break to lead 5-4 but blew three set points at 40-0 to allow Djokovic to break and level the contest.
Djokovic was unable to convert his own set point at 6-5 up when Korda unleashed a powerful serve.
The tiebreak was even more intense, with Korda again choking at crucial moments.
Korda blew a 6-3 lead, with the third of those set points a horror shot into the net from close range when he had almost the whole court at his mercy.
Djokovic also had a moment to forget when he framed a shot into the crowd during his own set point.
Korda finally came good on his seventh set point, with Djokovic fuming as he made his way to his rest area.
Djokovic sat down before yelling at his supporter box, ordering two of his entourage to leave the area.
The second set was a tight affair but Korda earned a championship point on Djokovic's serve.
Djokovic saved the match point with a nerveless overhead smash before coming up with the goods to level the match.
The third set seemed headed for a tiebreak but Djokovic pounced when Korda tightened up late.
AAP
