When Novak Djokovic was unable to compete at the Australian Open in January after his visa was cancelled, he was not the only player who saw the trajectory of his year immediately shift. Miomir Kecmanovic, his 22-year-old compatriot, had initially been lined up as Djokovic’s first victim but out of great misfortune sprang an opportunity. Instead of the best player in the world, he faced a lucky loser, Salvatore Caruso. The Serb swore that he would do his best to “avenge” Djokovic.
Not even he could have imagined just how faithfully he would live up to those words. He immediately reached a grand slam fourth round for the first time and he has just kept on going throughout the year.
