A fired-up Novak Djokovic powered into the last 16 of the Australian Open on Friday in an ominous reminder of why he is a 10-time Melbourne champion, but he needed a medical break and used an inhaler. The 37-year-old dropped a set in each of his opening two matches in Melbourne, but was on a mission against dangerous Czech 26th seed Tomas Machac.

Dispelling doubts that he still has what it takes in his bid for a record 25th Grand Slam crown, the Serb blew the 24-year-old off Rod Laver Arena 6-1, 6-4, 6-4 in 2hrs 22mins. The win propelled him into the last 16 at a Grand Slam for the 66th time, just three behind all-time leader Roger Federer and well clear of third-placed Rafael Nadal (54).