Djokovic calls the Australian Open his “second house”, such has been his dominance over time, and this was one other masterful show as he noticed off the newest youthful challenger.
His most up-to-date defeat in Melbourne stays a fourth-round loss towards South Korea’s Chung Hyeon in 2018.
With the match beginning about 17:00 native time in temperatures of 31C, Djokovic coolly created eight break factors within the opening set however turned more and more flustered as he was unable to take any of them.
Djokovic – trying overheated, repeatedly utilizing ice towels and shouting in the direction of his group – was virtually punished when 26-year-old Fritz created two set factors at 6-5 with a surprising forehand winner down the road.
Nevertheless, Djokovic regained his composure to save lots of them and lay the platform to pounce within the tie-break.
Helped by Fritz lacking a easy volley for 1-0, Djokovic shortly asserted his authority and wrapped up the opening set after one hour 24 minutes.
Fritz, who had misplaced all eight of his earlier conferences with Djokovic, responded valiantly.
A break of serve within the first recreation of the second set, earlier than preventing off seven break factors, enabled Fritz to degree the match.
However he began to be hampered by a foot subject and Djokovic, trying robust because the circumstances cooled, broke twice to win the third set.
Now utterly in management, Djokovic was below little stress on his serve and, when he broke for 4-2 within the fourth, the match seemed to be heading in the direction of a conclusion.
Fritz rallied as soon as extra by instantly breaking serve, however Djokovic broke once more earlier than serving out strongly.
