Melbourne Open

Djokovic-Nadal rivalry resumes in Melbourne

Having arrived in Australia unvaccinated 12 months ago, the nine-times Melbourne champion was deported amid a backlash from angry Australians who had endured some of the world's toughest lockdowns as COVID-19 infections surged.

Nadal pounced on the opportunity, vanquishing Daniil Medvedev in an epic final to capture his second title at Melbourne Park, and more importantly his 21st at Grand Slams, before adding one more major trophy to his tally at the French Open.

Djokovic into quarters but admits playing on in Melbourne is a gamble

The 33-year-old suffered an injury he described as "a tear" to his right side against Taylor Fritz in the third round, but was fit enough to beat Milos Raonic 7-6(4) 4-6 6-1 6-4 in the early hours of Monday morning to reach the quarter-finals.

The world number one said he has been having extensive treatment and was on painkillers, but declined to actually explain what the injury was when asked.