Novak Djokovic stumbles to Australian Open win over 'amazing' qualifier Dino Prizmic

Novak Djokovic started his bid for a 25th Grand Slam title with an error-strewn victory over qualifier Dino Prizmic at the Australian Open on Sunday.

The world No 1, aiming to win an 11th crown in the year's opening major, showed no sign of the right wrist problem that hampered his build-up but still dropped a set on his way to a 6-2, 6-7, 6-3, 6-4 first-round win over the 18-year-old Croat.

Prizmic, playing in his first Grand Slam match, saved six match points before Djokovic secured his spot in Round 2 for a 17th consecutive year, stretching his record at Melbourne Park to 90-8.

“I started off very well for a 36-year-old guy. But, geez, when you think about it, I'm double his age,” Djokovic said.

“Reality hit hard tonight,” he added, smiling. “But credit to him, he had an incredible game plan, he had an answer to everything.

“He deserves all the applause. He is an amazing player, he handled himself incredibly well on the court. This is his moment. It could easily have been his match as well. He showed great mentality and resilience

“I certainly want to be in his corner. So hopefully he will invite me, because he will make some big things in his career that's for sure.

An extraordinary match concludes in the most sporting fashion.

The past and present of this game embraces and congratulates the future.

Novak goes through 6-2 6-7(5) 6-3 6-4, but young Dino Prizmic leaves a lasting impression.#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/E4ZfCb0JcX

“I had some good moments and other moments I wish I could have played better. Physically, I'm still finding myself on court.”

Meanwhile, fifth seed Andrey Rublev needed four hours to beat Thiago Seyboth Wild 7-5, 6-4, 3-6, 4-6, 7-6. He later admitted fears his match would end like his friend Daniil