Novak Djokovic has backed Danielle Collins for her cheeky response to hostile fans at the Australian Open and said the sport could afford to take itself a little less seriously.

Novak Djokovic and Danielle Collins have both been involved in some controversial moments during the Australian Open.

Tony Jones has apologised to Novak Djokovic both privately and publicly but this is not the first time that he has committed unforced errors on air.

Novak Djokovic said he “loved” Danielle Collins’ reaction to a hostile home crowd at the Australian Open, adding that he was now a “big fan” of the American. After beating home favourite Destanee Aiava on a raucous Kia Arena,

Novak Djokovic declared himself a big fan of Danielle Collins’ approach to rowdy Australian Open fans after confronting his own heckler at Melbourne Park.

Novak Djokovic called Danielle Collins' feisty reaction to Australian Open hecklers "funny" and "smart" after himself getting riled up during his third-round win on Friday.

Read what Novak Djokovic had to say about Danielle Collins' controversial action and remarks after her Australian Open victory.

Novak Djokovic has had his say after Danielle Collins caused controversy with her antics at the Australian Open. The American star riled up the fans after beating Destanee Aiava on Thursday, gesturing to kiss her bottom and reminding them that she was taking a “big fat pay cheque”.

Novak Djokovic has thrown his support behind Danielle Collins and her reaction to the hostile Australian Open crowd after having his own running battle with fans on Friday night. The 24-time major winner booked his spot in the fourth round at Melbourne Park after a comfortable 6-1 6-4 6-4 win over Tomas Machac on Rod Laver Arena that he described as his best display of the tournament so far.

Serbian refused to give interview following victory over Jiri Lehecka after journalist from host network mocked his compatriots

Novak Djokovic charged into the Australian Open quarter-finals and booked a mouth-watering encounter with Carlos Alcaraz before the Serb shifted the focus by snubbing the Grand Slam's official broadcaster and slamming them for mocking him and his fans.