Watch: Nick Kyrgios steps in for Novak Djokovic as he rebukes chair umpire for unnecessary time violation

Djokovic’s third-round clash witnessed his clash against Tomas Martin Etcheverry on Friday, January 19. Despite the Argentinian’s formidable challenge, the World No. 1 eased past the former in the opening two sets. However, during the third set, the 36-year-old was intervened before his serve by the chair umpire with a time violation.

Subsequently, Nick Kyrgios voiced his displeasure against the unexpected decision of the chair umpire while commentating in the Eurosport booth at the Australian Open. He said:

Not necessary, ridiculous! Just ridiculousness! It’s like they get bored and they just want to say something instead of the score, like ridiculous. Nick Kyrgios commentatin for Eurosport

However, the time violation did not hamper the Serb’s performance in the match as he went on to clinch the third set and ultimately conclude his third-round meet with the Argentinian with a straight-set score of 6-3, 6-3, 7-6(2).

Novak Djokovic elated with signs of improvement compared to his opening-round performances at the Australian Open

While speaking at the post-match press conference after registering his third-round victory at the Melbourne event, Serbian tennis star Novak Djokovic admitted that his performance has improved compared to his opening-round showdowns.

He said:

I played better than I did in the first two rounds, so that's a positive change, I guess. Starting to feel better game-wise and physically, as well. It's positive signs. I still haven't been playing at my best. Novak Djokovic told the reporters

Djokovic is scheduled to lock horns with Adrian Mannarino for a place in the quarterfinals of the 2024 Australian Open on Sunday, January 21.