Novak Djokovic is into the quarter-finals of the Australian Open after a 6-3 6-4 7-6(4) victory over Jiri Lehecka.
The Serb had to overcome a third set blip as he progressed into the last eight in Melbourne with victory over the Brisbane champion.
Now a mouth-watering tie against Carlos Alcaraz awaits after the Spaniard advanced earlier today.
For two sets, Djokovic was in control against the in-form Czech Republican as he was serving tremendously well.
The Czech Republican had no impact on return and was forced to produce some aggressive serving in big moments as he saved break point in the fourth game.
An inevitable break of serve occurred for Djokovic in the eighth game as he was superior on serve, winning the opening set in 38 minutes.
In the second set Djokovic continued the momentum as he broke in the opening game but was forced to save break point in the second game in order to consolidate the break.
That seemed to free up Djokovic on return as he pushed for the double break, creating four break point opportunities.
However, Lehecka remained resilient and came to the net to finish off points efficiently as he forced Djokovic to close out a two set lead.
There was no signs of pressure from Djokovic as he held to love, sealing it with an ace, to secure a two set lead.
Early signs were that this was going to be a comfortable straight sets win as Djokovic broke in the opening game of the third set.
That turned out not to be the case as Djokovic was angry with the crowd disturbing him and Lehecka took advantage of the distraction to break immediately back.
Lehecka was now playing some of his best tennis of the match as he saved break points and produced irresistible serving.
There was no breakthrough from Djokovic on return with the third set having to be settled by a tiebreak.
Tiebreaks were Djokovic’s area of expertise and this was no different as he took the tiebreak 7-4 and sealed his place in the last eight.
Next up for Djokovic is a blockbuster showdown with Carlos Alcaraz in a repeat of the Wimbledon and Olympic final which they split wins.