Novak avoids serious injury

WORLD No. 1 Novak Djokovic escaped serious injury in an incident with over zealous fans after helping Serbia beat Italy at the mixed teams Hopman Cup in Perth, Australia, yesterday.

Djokovic, who only arrived in the city on Sunday evening after winning an exhibition tournament in Abu Dhabi, was too good for Italian Andreas Seppi, defeating him 6-3, 6-4. After the match, Djokovic made his way to sign autographs for youngsters at the side of the court. But as fans clamored to get the Serbian star's attention the barrier holding them back fell onto his legs.

Djokovic spent a few moments on his haunches before gingerly walking off the court and cancelling his post-match press conference to get treatment.

However the 25-year-old showed no signs of discomfort when he returned to the court for mixed doubles a short time later and played down the incident.

"I am good," he said. "It was a bit of a shock and I am glad that the children involved are okay. I am fine."

Djokovic, aiming for a third straight Australian Open title in Melbourne later this month, made it 10 wins from as many matches against Seppi.

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