Novak Djokovic struggles in five-set win over Troicki

feeling hot, hot, hot! Number three seed Novak Djokovic of Serbia ices his head during a break in his US Open Round One match against compatriot Viktor Troicki. pics/afp

His plays Germany's Philipp Petzschner next.

"Give credit to Viktor. He was playing and serving well. Even if I'd lose today it would have been deserved on his side," said Djokovic.

Djokovic started well enough, but after winning the first set, looked increasingly uncomfortable as Troicki, took command.

Troicki (24) won the next two sets and broke immediately in the fourth to take a 2-0 lead. A poor Djokovic drop shot followed by a double fault gave Troicki a break point for 4-1. The former Australian Open champion saved this with a big crosscourt forehand and and made it 2-3 down. Djokovic made it 3-3 as Troicki struggled with his serve. That seemed to energise Djokovic and unsettle Troicki, who suddenly looked the more tired of the two. Games went with serve until 6-5 for Djokovic when three unforced errors from Troicki sent the tie into a decider. Djokovic was broken to love, but broke back as Troicki started to look weary.

Two games later, Djokovic grabbed another break and with Troicki at a standstill, powered away for a brave win in 3 hours 40 minutes.

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