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 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”.

We can have a drink, though. Maybe you had a few already. Him and I were going back and forth for quite awhile.”

Novak Djokovic has leapt to the defence of Australian Open villain Danielle Collins as crowd behaviour continues to cause issues at Melbourne Park. The 10-time champion battled a heckler, berated technology,

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.

Follow Mail Sport's live blog for the latest score and game-by-game updates as Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz prepare to go head-to-head.

Afterwards he said it was in protest at Tony Jones, a top sports presenter with host broadcaster Channel 9, who he accused of "insulting and offensive comments" towards him and Serbian fans. Djokovic said he would boycott interviews with the TV station until he got an apology.

Jannik Sinner and Holger Rune overcame muggy conditions to produce the most memorable point of the Grand Slam event.