Novak Djokovic got here by way of a five-set epic in opposition to Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti on the French Open, which ended at 03:07 native time in Paris.
In a third-round contest that didn’t begin till 22:37 on Saturday, in the direction of the tip of a rain-affected day at Roland Garros, the defending champion fought again from two units to 1 right down to win 7-5 6-7 (6-8) 2-6 6-3 6-0.
The 37-year-old from Serbia seemed to be on the point of exiting the match by the hands of an impressed Musetti, the thirtieth seed.
However a rejuvenated Djokovic discovered recent momentum halfway by way of the fourth set, reeling off six consecutive breaks of serve to drive – after which ease to victory in – a decider.
There was a heat embrace between the pair on the conclusion of the match, with Djokovic becoming a member of the Courtroom Philippe Chatrier crowd in applauding his 22-year-old opponent in what was the most recent end in French Open historical past.
Victory in 4 hours and 29 minutes continued the world primary’s bid for a fourth French Open crown and he’ll play twenty third seed Francisco Cerundolo of Argentina within the final 16.
“I do not need to get into it [the schedule]. I’ve my opinions however I believe there are nice issues to speak about on this match right now,” mentioned Djokovic.
“Each Lorenzo and my performances stand out so I do not need to be speaking in regards to the schedule. I believe some issues may have been dealt with a unique method however there’s additionally a magnificence in successful a match [so late].”