Novak Djokovic has said that edging out Fernando Verdasco in a closely-fought first set helped set up his straight-sets win in the third round at the Australian Open this morning.
The world number one needed an hour and an 18-point tie-breaker to get the first set on the board before easing to a 7-6(8) 6-3 6-4 victory over the Spaniard, who was seeded 31st.
Speaking on court at the end of the match, the Serb said: "Credit to Fernando, it was a great match. Fernando was a top 10 player, he played final stages of Grand Slams and big tournament and has got pig power in his game, big forehand and a huge serve.
"I had to keep it together and I think the difference was made in the first set with the tie-breaker. I did serve well and obviously that helps. Players with a lot of power like Fernando put pressure on your service games. I went more for accuracy and precision and managed to have a lot of free points.
"I'm obviously not the only player who want to win this trophy. I've got to stay committed to my daily routine. I feel fit now and this is my best Grand Slam. I always play my best tennis on this court."
Djokovic will face unseeded Gilles Muller in the next round.
Sian Cowper
