Novak Djokovic crashes out of Australian Open after shock defeat to Denis Istomin

The Uzbekistani caused a massive upset in Melbourne after beating the defending champion in five sets

Novak Djokovic looks down in the dumps (Photo: Getty Images AsiaPac)

    Novak Djokovic is out of the Australian Open – leaving Andy Murray with his best ever chance to win the title for the first time.

The defending champion lost to world No 117 Denis Istonim 7-6 5-7 2-6 7-6 6-4 in a classic encounter which lasted four hours and 50 minutes.

The world No 2 was seeking a record seventh title in Melbourne and had not lost here since 2014 – including Murray in the last two final.

It was a huge shock because the Serb had shown signs of his old form in beating the Scot in the final of the Qatar Open and then winning in the first round here.

Denis Istomin celebrates one of the biggest wins of his career (Photo: Reuters)

And he had made the third round at the Australian Open for the last 11 years – and had not lost in the second round of a Grand Slam since the 2008 French Open.

Djokovic had never lost to a player ranked outside the top 100 in a Slam before.

“I surprised myself as well,” said the 30-year-old. “It means so much to me. I have so much emotion I cannot hold it. It was tough. It was the biggest win for me. I feel I can play with these guys on this level. I would like to thank my mum – she has done a great job.”

John McEnroe said: “What an incredible result – it is the biggest upset in a decade. Istomin hardly won a match last year.”

Istomin won the epic first set in 85 minutes – and then had two points to go two sets up at 5-4 in the second set.

But every time the winner of 12 Grand Slams seemed to be back in the match, the Uzbekh came up with more stunning shots. He closed out the match with an ace.

Djokovic said: “All the credit to Denis – he deserved to win. He was very aggressive, served very well and there was not a lot I could do. There was intensity but it was just one of those days on court when you don't feel very well and don't have rhythm and the other player played really well.

"He played above his level but you have got to give him credit for that. You have to give him credit to that. It is a tennis match. On a given day you can lose. Nothing is impossible."