Serena Williams "rooting for" Andy Murray in Melbourne

Serena Williams has admitted that she is "rooting for" Andy Murray to win the Australian Open this year.

Murray reached the fourth round in Melbourne with a 6-1 6-1 7-5 victory over Joao Sousa on Friday and is yet to drop a set in the tournament.

While making it clear that she does not strictly play favourites among the men's top seeds, Williams has revealed that she has a newfound respect for the Briton after recently playing a mixed doubles exhibition against him.

"I was rooting for Andy the whole time, so we'll see what happens," she told The AP. "I like Andy's attitude.

"I have a whole new appreciation for his game. He had great hands. I just saw he's amazing to watch. I really kind of liked that.

"But I was able to return his serve pretty well."

The world number one is favourite on the women's side of the draw and progressed to the second week by battling back from a set down to beat number 26 seed Elina Svitolina in the third round on Saturday.