Nole is through to the fourth round at the French Open, following a thrilling five-set win on Court Philippe-Chatrier.
World no.1 Novak Djokovic withstood the challenge of no.30 seed Lorenzo Musetti to prevail 7-5, 6-7, 2-6, 6-3, 6-0 and reach the last 16 in four hours and 29 minutes.
The third-round match got under way at 22:37 local time on rain-affected Saturday at Roland Garros. It is the latest finish in Roland Garros history.
Both players produced an impressive display and amazing level of power tennis.
Musetti started the match aggressively and secured a break in the third game. Novak broke back immediately, leveling the score at 2-2. There were no more break point opportunities until the 12th game, when Novak converted the first of two break/set point chances for a one-set lead.
The 24-time Grand Slam titlist was leading 4-2 in the second set, but Musetti managed to fight back. Djokovic had a 6-5 lead in the tie-break and a serve, but the next three points went to the Italian, who took the second set to level the contest.
Nole’s level dropped in the third set, and his motivated rival used it to break serve twice and take the advantage.
The Serbian star showed incredible mental strength in the fourth set. He raised his level of play, and with two breaks, raced to a 5-2 lead. Musetti got one break back, but Novak responded with another one for 6-3, forcing the decisive set.
Before entering the final set, the two were tied 124-124 in total points won.
Novak saved the best for last. It was a brilliant finish from the top seed and defending champion. Absolute domination and 6-0 for the great triumph in Paris.
Match statistics: aces (5-2), double faults (1-3), winners (43-20), unforced errors (24-23), total points won (92-59).
Novak will face either Tommy Paul (USA, 14) or Francisco Cerundolo (ARG, 23) for a place in the quarter-final.
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Photo: Profimedia
