Novak Djokovic eyes 10th Australian Open title after dismantling Alex De Minaur

Novak Djokovic is allowing his thoughts to turn to a 10th Australian Open title after he dismantled home favourite Alex De Minaur to reach the quarter-finals for the 13th

time. The 35-year-old’s damaged left hamstring has dominated discussions around his chances of triumphing again at Melbourne Park but there were no signs of discomfort here

as he eased to a 6-2 6-1 6-2 victory with a ruthless display. It was a very uncomfortable evening, though, for De Minaur – the last remaining home singles hope – on Rod

Laver Arena as he was outplayed in all areas. Watched by his girlfriend, British player Katie Boulter, the 23-year-old tried his best to find a way into the contest but,

with no big weapons, he was simply unable to hurt Djokovic, who broke serve six times and did not face a single break point himself. Seeded fourth but a clear favourite, the

Serbian said: “A week ago I didn’t really think about the title, I just thought about being in a good enough condition to play the next match. “Tonight, the way I played,

the way I felt, gives me reason now to believe that I can go all the way.” On his hamstring, Djokovic said: “I didn’t feel anything today. Today was great. I thank my

medical team, thank God, anybody that really helped me. “I don’t want to celebrate too early. I know things can change really quickly and I don’t take anything for granted.

I’m really pleased with the way I moved today and the way I hit the ball.” A shell-shocked De Minaur said: “I think what I experienced today was probably Novak very close to

his best, I would say. To me, if that’s the level, I think he’s definitely the guy that’s going to take the title.”