Novak Djokovic has been one of many players who have been heckled at the Australian Open - and the 10-time champion praised Danielle Collins' response to the rowdy crowd

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 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 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.

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”.

The final Aussie hope at Melbourne Park, Alex de Minaur, also takes the court in his toughest test to date against 31st-seed Francisco Cerundolo on Saturday afternoon. Meanwhile, two of the most in-form players in Melbourne this week, French veteran Gael Monfils and fourth seed Taylor Fritz, headline Margaret Court Arena action in the day.

Danielle Collins stood up for herself when confronted with a booing crowd at the Australian Open on Thursday which was angry that she was beating a local player, Destanee Aiava.