'You okay, Novak?' - Djokovic takes nasty tumble in big scare during Australian Open final with Stefanos Tsitsipas

Updated 29/01/2023 at 13:18 GMT

While Novak Djokovic fans were doubtless confident and delighted after the Serb powered to the opening set in style against Stefanos Tsitsipas in the final of the Australian Open final on Sunday, there was a concerning moment during the second. Djokovic lost his balance during an intense rally with his opponent and ended up suffering a painful-looking fall behind the baseline.

Watch as Djokovic takes worrying tumble during final as Tsitsipas battles back

Novak Djokovic could not have looked stronger as he stormed to the opening set in the 2023 Australian Open final against Stefanos Tsitsipas - but he did take a nasty tumble during the second.

The nine-time champion at Melbourne Park romped away with the opener, taking it 6-3 in hugely impressive fashion as he seized control of the match in style, with Tsitsipas perhaps dealing with some nerves in seeking his maiden Grand Slam triumph.

Djokovic continued to look dominant in the second set, but there was a very worrying moment for his camp and fans at 3-3 and with the Serb 15-30 up on the Tsitsipas serve as he lost his balance and took a concerning fall.

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Thankfully, though, the 35-year-old clambered back to his feet and looked to be okay as he moved around the court without much concern or hesitation.

Given the persistent hamstring injury that Djokovic has had to meticulously manage throughout the tournament, it would have been a big worry if he had needed to call the trainer or tend to anything following the fall.

Eurosport commentator Chris Bradnam was quick to declare it "just a stumble" as he got to his feet, much to the relief of his fans inside Rod Laver Arena and around the world.

Tim Henman added: "Good hitting from Tsitsipas, but for once, Djokovic loses his balance."

The 35-year-old Djokovic later went on to complete a stunning victory with a dominant display as he came through, 6-3 7-6(4) 7-6(5), to seal a men's record-equalling 22nd Grand Slam singles title and draw level with his great rival, Rafael Nadal.

For Tsitsipas, it was another crushing disappointment at the business end of a Grand Slam as he still seeks his maiden triumph at a major, but he was still able to reflect on a positive fortnight with yet more career progress.