Andy Murray vs Thanasi Kokkinakis LIVE: Australian Open scores, result and reaction after Murray wins 4am epic

Andy Murray soldiered on deep into the night to conjure another extraordinary win at the Australian Open as he came from two sets down against home favourite Thanasi Kokkinakis to win a five-set epic at gone 4am in Melbourne.

Kokkinakis served for victory at 5-3 in the third set of their second-round encounter on a rowdy, partisan Margaret Court Arena only for Murray to show once again that his greatest asset is a stubborn refusal to lose. The 35-year-old, who had battled for nearly five hours to upset Matteo Berrettini on Tuesday in his best result since 2017, forced a deciding set and finally prevailed 4-6 6-7 (4) 7-6 (5) 6-3 7-5 at 4.05am. At five hours and 45 minutes, it was the longest match of Murray’s whole career and the third-latest finish to a tennis match ever.

Novak Djokovic, meanwhile, battled through against French qualifier Enzo Couacaud in the headline match on Rod Laver Arena. Djokovic suffered a hamstring injury and went off the court for treatment during the second set, while a heckler that the Serb described as “drunk out of his mind” also clearly affected him. But he ultimately prevailed 6-1 6-7 6-2 6-0 to record a 23rd straight win at the Australian Open.

Earlier, American Jenson Brooksby upset second seed Casper Ruud 6-3 7-5 6-7(4) 6-2 to claim the biggest win of his career and reach the third round. Brooksby squandered three match points in the third set but regained his composure to send Ruud packing in just under four hours on Rod Laver Arena. Dan Evans is also through after an ill-tempered win over Jeremy Chardy.

Relive all the action from the Australian Open in our live blog below:

Australian Open 2023 LIVE - Latest scores and results

• Andy Murray fights back from two sets down to defeat Thanasi Kokkinakis in Australian Open second round

• Novak Djokovic battles past French qualifier Enzo Couacaud in four sets despite hamstring issue

• Djokovic takes medical timeout midway through second set against Couacaud

• Djokovic rages against “drunk out his mind” fan dressed as 'Where’s Wally?’

• Casper Ruud crashes out after Jenson Brooksby adds latest Australian Open shock

• Dan Evans keeps cool amid controversy to reach Australian Open third round

• Caroline Garcia passes Leylah Fernandez test to win 7-6 7-5

• Australian wildcard Alexei Popyrin stuns Taylor Fritz in five sets

• Men’s draw blown wide open as Alex Zverev shocked by lucky loser Michael Mmoh

Andy Murray defeats Thanasi Kokkinakis at 4am in epic five-hour comeback

18:04 , Michael Jones

What are you made from, Andy Murray? What are you actually made from? Because there has to be more than just a metal hip holding you together, allowing you to still be producing these moments and matches that defy what should be possible. Even now, at the age of 35 and two days on from a five-hour epic that was his best victory in years, Murray has conjured another, and a victory that will rank as perhaps the greatest and most extraordinary escape act of his entire career. Thanasi Kokkinakis played the match of his life, and it was not enough. For Murray, this was the ultimate trial of endurance and mentality, his odyssey, and he came through it.

It was already deep into the absurd stretches of the Melbourne night and at 2:59 am when Murray clawed himself back and forced a fifth set. He had faced the storm Kokkinakis had whipped up on the Margaret Court Arena, amid a barrage of forehand assaults from a player who for two hours simply could not miss. It would have broken the will of most, but it did not begin to scratch the spirit of Murray. An extraordinary battle from the brink, sparked from a miracle point early in the third set, was the just start of the long road back - by the end, he had never played for longer, or later.

That, in itself, is insanity. Murray played for four hours and 45 minutes as he defeated Matteo Berrettini on Tuesday, he reached five hours and 45 minutes here, as the match finished at 4am. Murray was furious at the end of the fourth set - not at how he was playing, but that the sport of tennis itself could get to the point where a match of such intensity and commitment was being played at such a time, forcing not only the players, but fans, ball kids, and tournament staff to endure late into the night as well.

Andy Murray defeats Thanasi Kokkinakis at 4am in epic five-hour comeback

Who does Andy Murray play next?

17:45 , Michael Jones

Andy Murray is through to the third round of the Australian Open after roaring back to defeat Thanasi Kokkinakis in five sets from two sets down in the longest match of his career.

In a mirror image of his first-round match against Matteo Berrettini, in which Murray won the opening two sets before letting the Italian back into the match, this time he had to fight from behind against the Australian receiving home support from the crowd.

Murray finally came through 4-6 6-7 (4) 7-6 (5) 6-3 7-5, finishing at 4am - the third-latest end to a grand slam match in tennis history.

Murray only progressed past the second round of a grand slam once last season, where he was defeated by Berrettini in the US Open third round. But the victory, which was secured after five hours and 45 minutes, was arguably the former world No 1’s best at a grand slam since 2017 and hopes are now high ahead of the rest of the tournament.

Who does Andy Murray play next?

‘I have a big heart’: Andy Murray outlasts Thanasi Kokkinakis in longest match of his career

17:37 , Michael Jones

Andy Murray was almost lost for words after outlasting Thanasi Kokkinakis at the Australian Open in the longest match of his career.

The 35-year-old, who had battled for nearly five hours to upset Matteo Berrettini on Tuesday in his best result since 2017, forced a deciding set after going two down and finally prevailed 4-6 6-7 (4) 7-6 (5) 6-3 7-5 at gone 4am in Melbourne.

At five hours and 45 minutes, it was the longest match of Murray’s whole career and the third latest finish to a tennis match ever.

‘I have a big heart’: Andy Murray emerges victorious from longest match of career

Andy Murray defeats Thanasi Kokkinakis at 4am in epic five-hour comeback

17:33 , Michael Jones

Andy Murray came from two sets down to defeat Thanasi Kokkinakis in a scarcely-believable five-hour epic at the Australian Open, in a match that finished at 4am in Melbourne.

In the longest match of Murray’s career, at five hours and 45 minutes, the 35-year-old won an extraordinary contest 4-6 6-7 7-6 6-3 7-5 to advance to the third round, in what was the latest match ever played at the Australian Open.

Kokkinakis played at an inspired level in front of his home crowd and was two points away from victory in the third set but Murray produced an astonishing comeback that was also the ultimate test of physical and mental endurance.

Murray found the crucial break of serve with a stunning forehand winner and served out the astonishing victory in the next game.

Andy Murray defeats Thanasi Kokkinakis at 4am in epic five-hour comeback

Andy Murray wins five set thriller against Thanasi Kokkinakis

17:26 , Michael Jones

Thanasi Kokkinakis must be gutted. He gave it everything tonight but just couldn’t finish Murray off.

Andy Murray wins five set thriller against Thanasi Kokkinakis

17:22 , Michael Jones

That match was five hours and 45 minutes, it is the longest match Andy Murray has ever played and during his on-court interview he was asked how he got through it.

“I don’t know. Unbelievable that I managed to turn that round.” he said, “Thanasi [Kokkinakis] was serving unbelievable. I don’t know how I managed to get through it.

“Yeah, I have a big heart.”

Andy Murray wins five set thriller against Thanasi Kokkinakis

17:18 , Michael Jones

How does Andy Murray do it? His resilience is incredible.

Andy Murray wins five set thriller against Thanasi Kokkinakis

17:15 , Michael Jones

Andy Murray wins five set thriller against Thanasi Kokkinakis

17:13 , Michael Jones

Andy Murray has now come back from two sets down to win a match 11 times. No-one has done that more times than him.

11 - Andy Murray

10 - Roger Federer

10 - Boris Becker

10 - Aaron Krickstein

Andy Murray wins five set thriller against Thanasi Kokkinakis

17:11 , Michael Jones

The end result:

Andy Murray 4-6, 6-7(4-7), 7-6 (7-5), 6-3, 7-5 Thanasi Kokkinakis

Andy Murray wins five set thriller against Thanasi Kokkinakis

17:10 , Michael Jones

That was an incredible match. It’s gone past 4am in Melbourne, they were playing for five hours 45 minutes and in the end the hero that is Andy Murray goes through.

He was two sets and a break down in the third but won it. Thanasi Kokkinakis was a superb opponent. He stuck in their until the very end, got the crowd going and never dropped his levels.

Murray was just on fire in the closing sets.

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 6-3 7-5 Thanasi Kokkinakis - Murray wins!

17:07 , Michael Jones

He only needs one! Andy Murray has done it! He fought back from two sets and a break down to defeat Thanasi Kokkinakis!

What a match, what a man, what a legend Andy Murray is.

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 6-3 6-5 Thanasi Kokkinakis

17:06 , Michael Jones

A wide serve and forehand return is enough for Murray as Kokkinakis slices one out of play. Murray now has two match points.

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 6-3 6-5 Thanasi Kokkinakis

17:04 , Michael Jones

Murray attempts to roll a forehand down the line but smokes the shot into the net to bring the game level at 15-15.

His next serve goes out wide and Kokkinakis miscues the return. 30-15.

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 6-3 6-5 Thanasi Kokkinakis

17:03 , Michael Jones

Andy Murray faced a service game in the third set to remain in the match. Thanasi Kokkinakis could have won this match hours ago and now the Australian has to defend for his life.

Both men drive up to the net but it’s Murray who wins the rally as Kokkinakis’ volley finds the net. 15-0.

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 6-3 6-5 Thanasi Kokkinakis* - Murray breaks!

17:01 , Michael Jones

YES HE CAN! Andy Murray with a blistering inside out forehand that bounces away from Kokkinakis and gives him the game.

Andy Murray now has the chance to serve for the match.

Unbelievable.

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 6-3 5-5 Thanasi Kokkinakis*

17:00 , Michael Jones

A third break point comes and goes for Andy Murray but he drives up to the net and volleys a backhand slice over to set up another advantage.

Murray’s missed seven break points in the last to Kokkinakis service games. Can he win this one?

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 6-3 5-5 Thanasi Kokkinakis*

16:58 , Michael Jones

Kokkinakis’ serve out wide is too good for Murray and he doesn’t get the return back. There’s one more chance for him to break though.

It’s no chance at all. Kokkinakis fizzes an ace down the T line to bring the game to deuce.

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 6-3 5-5 Thanasi Kokkinakis*

16:57 , Michael Jones

Is this the game for Andy Murray?

He whips his forehand over to the left side of court to move 15-30 in front. Kokkinakis then faults from his first serve allowing Murray to drill a backhand across court that Kokkinakis sends out of play. ‘

Two break points for Murray.

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 6-3 5-5 Thanasi Kokkinakis

16:54 , Michael Jones

From deuce Murray wins the next two points with Kokkinakis lobbing the ball over the back of court. They draw level once more in the fifth set.

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 6-3 4-5 Thanasi Kokkinakis

16:52 , Michael Jones

Ecstasy then agony. Kokkinakis gets in front before smoking a return of serve inches wide with a forehand across court. 30-30.

What a match. Murray looks to take control before Kokkinakis responds with some incredible hitting that forces Murray side-to-side.

40-40.

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 6-3 4-5 Thanasi Kokkinakis

16:50 , Michael Jones

Great start from Andy Murray as he serves down the T line and stops Kokkinakis from returning the ball.

Luck goes to the Australian in the next rally though as a driving backhand down the line hits the top of the net and drops into Murray’s half of court.

15-15.

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 6-3 4-5 Thanasi Kokkinakis*

16:47 , Michael Jones

A sedate rally ends in a point for Murray after Kokkinakis goes long but he closes out the game with yet another ace!

He’s sent down 36 serving winners now compared to Murray’s 10.

Kokkinakis is one game away from taking the match with Murray serving to stay in it.

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 6-3 4-4 Thanasi Kokkinakis*

16:46 , Michael Jones

Ace, 30-15.

Ace, 40-15.

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 6-3 4-4 Thanasi Kokkinakis*

16:45 , Michael Jones

Oh wow! A rally that Murray looked to be in control off goes Kokkinakis’ way after the Australian drives a forehand across court and forces Murray wide. Murray’s return loops long and Kokkinakis takes the first point.

The second one should go to Kokkinakis too but he gets his angle slightly wrong on an inside-out forehand and just drops it out of play.

15-15.

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 6-3 4-4 Thanasi Kokkinakis

16:42 , Michael Jones

Andy Murray shrugs off the disappointment of losing the previous game by running quickly through to 40-0. Both men are tired and it’s showing in a few of the shots.

Murray holds serve to love. Back over to Kokkinakis.

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 6-3 3-4 Thanasi Kokkinakis

16:39 , Michael Jones

And he does! Andy Murray sends a backhand slice out of play and almost lets go of his raquet in disappointment at letting that game slip.

Brilliant defensive work from Thanasi Kokkinakis though. He goes ahead in the fifth set once again.

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 6-3 3-3 Thanasi Kokkinakis*

16:38 , Michael Jones

Deuce number four. Andy Murray sets himself up for a fourth break point in the game but Kokkinakis’ wide serve is too quick for him to keep in play.

The Aussie then moves to advantage himself and brings out the fist pump. He desperately wants to win this game.

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 6-3 3-3 Thanasi Kokkinakis*

16:35 , Michael Jones

Murray’s cross court backhand goes wide and Kokkinakias lets out a roar of celebration before moving to advantage. The Australian finds the net in the next rally to bring the game back to deuce though before smoking an ace down the T.

This game has had everything so far.

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 6-3 3-3 Thanasi Kokkinakis*

16:33 , Michael Jones

One saved! A powerful serve wide to Murray’s backhand give Kokkinakis control of the rally. He works the ball across court and although Murray gets to it his lob goes long.

Two saved! Kokkinakis meets Murray’s return of serve with and driving shot over to the right side of court and Murray can’t reach it.

Three saved! Kokkinakis hooks a forehand from out wide all the way across court and lands it in play!

What nerves of steel from the Australian. 40-40.

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 6-3 3-3 Thanasi Kokkinakis*

16:30 , Michael Jones

Stop it! A rally that seems to be developing into a backhand contest ends when Andy Murray drives one down the line to move 0-30 up against the serve.

The pressure gets to Kokkinakis who then double faults leaving Murray with three break points!

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 6-3 3-3 Thanasi Kokkinakis

16:28 , Michael Jones

Regardless of the result this has been another exhilarating match the likes of which it seems only Andy Murray can provide. He’s had an able accomplice in Thanasi Kokkinakis who has maintained his composure and skill levels throughout.

Murray is never beaten until the last breathe though and a couple of massive forehand returns send him 40-15 up in the next game.

A slightly soft backhand from Kokkinakis allows Murray to run behind the ball and land his forehand return right in the corner forcing the Australian off balance for his return shot which goes long.

Game Murray.

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 6-3 2-3 Thanasi Kokkinakis*

16:22 , Michael Jones

How has that landed in? Murray latches onto Kokkinakis’ second serve with a powerful cross courts forehand but the Australian reaches the wide ball and whips it back into play with such speed from his backhand that Murray can’t respond.

Kokkinakis then sweeps up to 40-0 in no time and, after dropping the next point, takes the game with an ace.

They’re flying through this set now.

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 6-3 2-2 Thanasi Kokkinakis

16:18 , Michael Jones

‘Let’s go!’ exclaims Kokkinakis as he rolls a beautiful backhand down the line to get a winner past Murray.

The next two points go to Murray with Kokkinakis unable to replicate his shot down the line and finding the net.

Murray then targets Kokkinakis’ backhand with a peppering of forehand shots to the far corner and picks up another point when the Aussie goes into the net once more.

The Scot wins the game with an insane backhand drop shot leaving Kokkinakis bewildered on the opposite side of court.

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 6-3 1-2 Thanasi Kokkinakis*

16:14 , Michael Jones

Game Kokkinakis! No nonsense stuff from the Australian who rattles through his service game without conceding a point. The pressure will all be on Murray in this set.

He need to hold serve again.

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 6-3 1-1 Thanasi Kokkinakis*

16:13 , Michael Jones

There’s a bit of a swagger about Thanasi Kokkinakis now. He seems to be right up for this fight. From his serve he forces Murray deep but the Scot gets the return back.

Kokkinakis rolls his wrists over a forehand to send Murray scrambling to the ball where he knocks back a defensive lob. Kokkinakis lets it bounce then smashes home the winner to move. 30-0 ahead.

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 6-3 1-1 Thanasi Kokkinakis*

16:11 , Michael Jones

Game Murray! Another forehand from Kokkinakis just drops wide of the line and Murray holds serve in the fifth set.

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 6-3 0-1 Thanasi Kokkinakis

16:09 , Michael Jones

After winning the first point a late decision from Murray sees him sprint up to the net to meet Kokkinakis’ return on the volley. He doesn’t quite get there in time and slices the ball into the net.

Kokkinakis then goes long in the next rally before skewing an attempted backhand smash well wide off Murray’s second serve. 40-15.

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 6-3 0-1 Thanasi Kokkinakis*

16:05 , Michael Jones

Murray’s backhand forces Kokkinakis over to the corner and the Aussie goes wide with a strike down the line. His main threat at the minute is from the serve and a second ace of the game puts him back ahead.

Murray then miscues a slice and spins the ball wide of the sideline to put Kokkinakis 40-15 in front.

Game Kokkinakis! Murray hits the net with a swiping forehand and his opponent takes the first game of the fifth set.

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 6-3 0-0 Thanasi Kokkinakis*

16:02 , Michael Jones

This fantastic match will be decided by a fifth and final set. Each of the last three sets have lasted over an hour so this match is far from over yet.

Thanasi Kokkinakis will serve first. He starts with an ace.

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 6-3 Thanasi Kokkinakis - Murray wins the fourth!

16:00 , Michael Jones

Murray saves break point after Kokkinakis went in front with a wonderful backhand to the back corner. He then missed his first serve and Kokkinakis jumps onto the second serve smoking a forehand smash wide of the target!

Advantage Murray.

Murray takes the fourth set! He wins it with a ace and the match is all square. This is just unbelievable.

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 5-3 Thanasi Kokkinakis

15:57 , Michael Jones

What a shot! Andy Murray does not give in. Thanaski Kokkinakis will feel hard done by after that rally. It was a mix of slices and power hitting with both men hugging the baseline.

Neither gained control until Murray met a cross court ball with a two-handed backhander down the line to claim the point!

Deuce.

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 5-3 Thanasi Kokkinakis

15:55 , Michael Jones

Oh the nerves! Murray aces to go in front then a great rally, full of forehand slices and power shot across court ends with Murray fizzing a forehand into the net. 30-30.

Kokkinakis then sets up a break point with a wide forehand return that Murray backhands into the net.

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 5-3 Thanasi Kokkinakis

15:53 , Michael Jones

The feeling in the crowd has firmly moved over to Thanasi Kokkinakis since he fell behind in this set. He wins the first point against the serve and the crowd goes wild.

It’s a more subdued response when Murray forces Kokkinakis to fire a return from serve out of play in the next rally. 15-15.

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 5-3 Thanasi Kokkinakis*

15:51 , Michael Jones

Kokkinakis powers a backhander down the line and forces Murray to stretch for the return. He only just makes it but knocks the return into the net.

Another mistakes from Murray puts Kokkinakis 40-30 ahead and the Australian closes out with an ace.

Over to you Andrew. Can Murray serve out the set?

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 5-2 Thanasi Kokkinakis*

15:48 , Michael Jones

Kokkinakis faults on his first serve allowing Murray to set up a return and volley to win the first point of the game. The Aussie responds with a fine ace though.

15-15.

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 5-2 Thanasi Kokkinakis

15:45 , Michael Jones

Game Murray! He continues to target the Kokkinakis backhand and twice his opponent finds the net to secure Murray a hold of serve and a completed break in the fourth set.

He’s just one game away from levelling the match now.

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 4-2 Thanasi Kokkinakis

15:44 , Michael Jones

This match really does seem like a win-win for the crowd. They’re supporting the homegrown talent of Thanasi Kokkinakis but every point Andy Murray wins is cheered equally as loud.

Murray’s service game builds to 15-15 and Kokkinakis isn’t happy. A wide serve from Murray takes Kokkinakis over to the right in order to hit back his return and Murray sets himself in the middle of the court before smashing back the winner.

30-15.

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 4-2 Thanasi Kokkinakis* - Murray breaks!

15:41 , Michael Jones

Is it any surprise that this game has gone to deuce? Murray takes advantage after a dainty drop shot rally. He steps up to the net and flicks the ball over to Kokkinakis’ backhand.

Kokkinakis returns down the line but hits the net and gifts the point to Murray.

It’s a break! Murray wins the first break point of the fourth set and storms into a two-game lead! Can he hold now?

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 3-2 Thanasi Kokkinakis*

15:39 , Michael Jones

There’s cheers, there’s screams, there are fist pumps galore as Kokkinakis opens up the far side of the court and smokes a forehand winner past a tired looking Murray.

Murray is a bastion of inner strength though. The next rally sees Kokkinakis attempt a drop shot but both men stepped up to the net and Murray volleys home a passing winner.

30-30.

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 3-2 Thanasi Kokkinakis*

15:36 , Michael Jones

After a break in play Andy Murray steps back onto the court and gets the crowd excited. Thanasi Kokkinakis looks around wide-eyed and just smiles.

What an atmosphere in the Rod Laver arena right now.

Kokkinakis then adds the the cheers by winning the first point of the next game after drawing Murray into hitting the net from a return of serve. 15-0.

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 3-2 Thanasi Kokkinakis

15:33 , Michael Jones

Game Murray! Kokkinakis comes up to net with a drop shot that Murray flicks back. The return volley comes to Murray’s backhand and he blazes one down the line to win the point.

Murray then follows up with an ace before a mistake from Kokkinakis gives him the game.

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 2-2 Thanasi Kokkinakis

15:30 , Michael Jones

That was a quicker game. Thanasi Kokkinakis serves out the last two points to draw level in the set. The blistering toe-to-toe tennis of the first three games couldn’t continue.

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 2-1 Thanasi Kokkinakis*

15:29 , Michael Jones

Brilliant defence from Murray who sets up to the net but gets lobbed.

He chases down the ball and works back to the return. Kokkinakis fails to capitalise and dinks the ball back to the middle of court allowing Murray to hook it over to the opposite side of court to take the point.

30-15.

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 2-1 Thanasi Kokkinakis*

15:25 , Michael Jones

Game Andy Murray! It doens’t take Murray long to wrap up the game from deuce. Two quick rallies go his way and the Scot moves back ahead in the fourth set.

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 1-1 Thanasi Kokkinakis

15:23 , Michael Jones

Lovely! Murray is a little soft from the serve allowing Kokkinakis to control the rally. The Aussies fizzes one down the line to set up another break point.

Saved! Murray falls back on his tried and tested method. Come up to the net and volley home a winner. Back to deuce.

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 1-1 Thanasi Kokkinakis

15:22 , Michael Jones

This is a familiar sight. Kokkinakis wins a point with a beautifully placed backhand slice to earn a break point but he follows it up by hitting one into the net.

40-40. Who will win this game from here?

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 1-1 Thanasi Kokkinakis

15:19 , Michael Jones

The crowd erupts in a big cheer as Thanasi Kokkinakis takes the first point from Murray’s next service game but that lead doesn’t last long.

An ace brings Murray level before a missed shot from Kokkinakis puts the Scot ahead. 30-15.

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 1-1 Thanasi Kokkinakis*

15:17 , Michael Jones

Kokkinakis sends his serve down to Murray’s forehand before latching onto the weak return and whipping it back past Murray to move, once more, to advantage.

Game! Kokkinakis wins it with an ace! Both of these opening fourth set games have gone to deuce now. Both players are slugging it out.

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 1-0 Thanasi Kokkinakis*

15:16 , Michael Jones

There’s no room for any error. Kokkinakis saves break point with an audacious flick from the back of the court before Murray drags the game back level at 40-40.

It’s the sixth deuce of the game coming up.

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 1-0 Thanasi Kokkinakis*

15:09 , Michael Jones

That was needed! Murray sets up a break point after Kokkinakis draws level at 30-30 but the Aussie smokes a pacey serve out wide for an ace to bring the game to deuce.

40-40.

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 1-0 Thanasi Kokkinakis*

15:08 , Michael Jones

The longer this match goes on the more Thanasi Kokkinakis looks uncomfortable. Murray moves 0-30 ahead against the serve but the Australian responds well.

He works the ball onto his forehand and sends Murray scrambling across court, desperately trying to defend. A looping backhand return just clips the line but Kokkinakis smashes it back to get on the board in this game.

15-30.

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 1-0 Thanasi Kokkinakis

15:03 , Michael Jones

Another break point saved! Kokkinakis floats one up into the middle of the court and Murray latches on to a forehand that he sends into the back corner to win the point.

A wide serve comes next which results in an ace before Kokkinakis miscues a backhand slice to give Murray the game!

What a start to the fourth set.

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 0-0 Thanasi Kokkinakis

15:01 , Michael Jones

Murray saves break point with a powerful wide serve and return before stepping up to the net and forcing Kokkinakis to lob one long.

Murray takes advantage in the game then misses his first serve. A rally of cross court backhands follows before Kokkinakis takes control with a pacey forehand and overhead finish.

Back to deuce.

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 0-0 Thanasi Kokkinakis

14:58 , Michael Jones

Deuce! Murray moves ahead to 40-30 then looks to close out the game by coming up to the net. Kokkinakis responds with a lob that Murray can only drop back and the Australian smokes a passing winner over to the far side of court.

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 0-0 Thanasi Kokkinakis

14:56 , Michael Jones

‘Come on!’ yelps Murray as he gets on the board. He then works Kokkinakis wide to the forehand and crosses the court with a backhand slice.

Kokkinakis gets to the ball but hooks his return out of play 30-30.

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 0-0 Thanasi Kokkinakis

14:55 , Michael Jones

Everyone take a breathe because this match is going to go for some time now.

Andy Murray serves up the first game of the fourth set and targets Kokkinakis’ forehand. The Australian goes down the line and takes the first point.

Murray then slices a backhand into the net in the next rally and slumps to 0-30.

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 7-6 Thanasi Kokkinakis*

14:53 , Michael Jones

Andy Murray wins the tie-break! He takes the third set and gets back into the match. Incredible scenes.

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 6-6 (6-5) Thanasi Kokkinakis

14:52 , Michael Jones

Neither man is letting this go. Murray serves down the T and Kokkinakis returns. Murray looks to keep the ball in play but sets Kokkinakis up with an easy forehand return across court!

That’s a solid response from Murray though who takes the next point and has the chance to win the set. He’ll need to win it off Kokkinakis’ serve though.

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 6-6 (5-4) Thanasi Kokkinakis*

14:48 , Michael Jones

A deep, wide serve from Andy Murray skips off the line and flies wide of Thanasi Kokkinakis to keep the tie-break on serve with Murray in the lead.

Thanasi Kokkinakis pumps a serve down the T once more and fires down an ace to draw level.

His next serve goes down the T but Murray gets this back. The Australian should return a simple forehand but his misses! Murray breaks again.

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 6-6 (3-3) Thanasi Kokkinakis

14:45 , Michael Jones

Unbelievable! Kokkinakis plays it a little tentative with his serve to Murray’s forehand and he’s punished by a blistering return from the Scot who takes another break of serve.

But what Murray can do so can Kokkinakis.

Murray’s next serve is flicked back and a long rally ensues. Murray switches up his gameplan and works the ball over to Kokkinakis’ forehand but the Australian smokes it cross-court and wins the point.

3-3 in the tie-break.

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 6-6 (2-2) Thanasi Kokkinakis*

14:42 , Michael Jones

Andy Murray targets the backhand of Thanasi Kokkinakis once again before running up to the net and meeting the ball on the volley with a cross-court drop to move back in front.

Kokkinakis responds with a powerful ace down the T to draw level at 2-2.

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 6-6 (1-1) Thanasi Kokkinakis

14:41 , Michael Jones

Thanasi Kokkinakis has the first serve of the tie-break but Murray forces the ball to his backhand before following up with a return winner to earn a break of serve.

That doesn’t last though as Murray gifts the point back straight away from his first serve. 1-1 in the tie-break.

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 6-6 Thanasi Kokkinakis

14:39 , Michael Jones

Incredible from Murray! He takes the first point of his service game the follows up by storming up to the net and volleying himself 30-0 ahead.

The rest of the game doesn’t last long either. Murray sends down an ace and follows up with a cool winner to force another tie break!

6-6 in the third set.

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 5-6 Thanasi Kokkinakis

14:37 , Michael Jones

Game Kokkinakis! An ace from the Australian takes him from 15-30 down to 40-30 in front and opens up the chance to win the game.

Murray draws him into a lengthy rally before fizzing one down the line. Kokkinakis gets the ball back but leaves Murray with a volley across court to win the point.

Murray messes up though and drops his shot into the net to give Kokkinakis the game. Murray has to serve to stay in the match once again!

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 5-5 Thanasi Kokkinakis*

14:35 , Michael Jones

The pressure is on Thanasi Kokkinakis. An attempted drop shot from the Australian sees Murray slice one past him and move ahead in this crucial game. He leads 15-30.

There’s a brilliant response from Kokkinakis though who sticks into a tricky rally before taking the winner to level at 30-30.

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 5-5 Thanasi Kokkinakis

14:31 , Michael Jones

40-30. A backhand return of serve from Thanasi Kokkinakis is smoked back to Murray’s forehand and he fails to put it away. He walks behind the baseline and refocuses.

Murray’s next serve is softly returned into the middle of court by Kokkinakis allowing Murray to pounce and rattle the winner past his opponent.

Five games apiece in this third set. Murray surely can’t come back from this, can he?

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 4-5 Thanasi Kokkinakis

14:28 , Michael Jones

Lovely from Andy Murray. Twice his steps up to the net and volleys back to the open side of court. He leads 40-15 now and has a couple of game points.

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 4-5 Thanasi Kokkinakis

14:26 , Michael Jones

A bit of luck for Andy Murray who clips the net and sees the ball drop into Kokkinakis’ side of court. Murray raises a hand in apology but the first point of the game goes to Murray.

A tense rally follows with Kokkinakis drawing Murray to the net but his cross-court backhand goes wide and they’re level at 15-15.

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 4-5 Thanasi Kokkinakis* - Murray breaks

14:25 , Michael Jones

Oh my word! Kokkinakis brings the game level at 30-30 but can’t close it out. He makes a couple of minor errors gifting the advantage and momentum to Murray who jumps on them.

A soft slice from Kokkinakis is hooked back and Murray takes the game! This set is back on serve!

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 3-5 Thanasi Kokkinakis*

14:22 , Michael Jones

Oh this is tense. Murray is laser focused in keeping the ball in play and gets Kokkinakis’ serve back through the middle. The Scot takes the first two points to lead 0-30.

There’s a response from Kokkinakis though. His serve is sharp and puts Murray on the back foot. He goes for the lob which sets up the Australian for an overhead smash that lands perfectly and gets him on the board.

15-30.

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 3-5 Thanasi Kokkinakis

14:20 , Michael Jones

Emphatic from Murray! An ace and a blistering winner sees Murray take his service game without conceding a point and the pressure is back on Kokkinakis.

He’s serving to win the match now.

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 2-5 Thanasi Kokkinakis

14:18 , Michael Jones

Murray is now serving to stay in the game. He has to hold his serve here.

It’s a good start from the Scot as Kokkinakis goes long from trying to return the serve before Murray works his across court before a passing winner takes him to 30-0.

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 2-5 Thanasi Kokkinakis*

14:17 , Michael Jones

A well fought rally ends in disappointment for Murray when he goes down the line and rattles the ball into the net to send Kokkinakis to advantage.

Can the Australian close out the game?

Yes he can! What a shot that is from Kokkinakis, a forehand winner fizzed past Murray to put him within one game of victory!

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 2-4 Thanasi Kokkinakis*

14:15 , Michael Jones

Andy Murray has just come up against an opponent on the top of his game tonight. Thanasi Kokkinakis has a two game cushion now in the third set and Murray is facing a massive uphill battle to stay in the match.

On his serve Kokkinakis fires down a couple of double faults to bring the game level at 40-40.

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 2-4 Thanasi Kokkinakis* - Kokkinakis breaks

14:09 , Jamie Braidwood

Ah, Murray lets one slip as a forehand goes long. Suddenly a chance for Kokkinakis at 0-30, but Murray steadies as Kokkinakis goes wide on the forehand.

But Kokkinakis comes again, as Murray’s level again slips, setting up two break points.

And it goes long from Murray - Kokkinakis has regained his composure, and control of the match.

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 2-3 Thanasi Kokkinakis

14:04 , Jamie Braidwood

It’s 1am in Melbroune and this now feels like a different game. Murray has changed the mood and gets a sniff at a chance as he forces another error from Kokkinakis.

At 15-30, Murray gets Kokkinakis chasing - he’s the one now hitting the lines - but Kokkinakis survives and claws his way back into it, before finding the forehand winner. That was a remarkable point!

And is that what Kokkinakis needs? Another big forehand, 40-30, but then Murray comes up with the drop shot! Kokkinakis and can’t pick it up!

Deuce - but Kokkinakis steers the backhand down the line, and then comes up with an ace.

That is a massive, massive hold. Murray had a chance there.

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 2-2 Thanasi Kokkinakis*

13:58 , Jamie Braidwood

Look at this point, wow.

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 2-2 Thanasi Kokkinakis*

13:58 , Jamie Braidwood

That is one of the most extraordinary five minutes of tennis you will ever see.

And is this, now, finally, the moment Murray gets momentum?

Murray makes the forehand winner and then, again, somehow, chases down Kokkinakis’ forehands.

ACE!

This is silly.

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 1-2 Thanasi Kokkinakis - Murray breaks!

13:51 , Jamie Braidwood

Wow! Now it’s Kokkinakis’ turn to get a time warning on a big point!

“What is that s***!” he yells at the umpire! “I was waiting for him to stop talking, that’s a bad call!”

It’s still deuce, but Kokkinakis has let his emotions out, and Murray ramps up the pressure by catching the line by the narrowest of margins with the return!

Break point!

AND I CANNOT BELIEVE HOW ANDY MURRAY WINS THIS POINT!!!

I CANNOT BELIEVE THIS.

MURRAY WINS IT - SOMEHOW! He returns four, five, six smashes from Kokkinakis - there was no hope, none, but Murray produces a miracle lob to catch the baseline, and Kokkinakis nets!

That is insane.

And Kokkinakis starts to lose it! He smashes his racket and then rages at the umpire!

What a moment.

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 0-2 Thanasi Kokkinakis*

13:49 , Jamie Braidwood

Well, well. .Kokkinakis plays a loose couple of points and after Murray shows brilliant defence again to force the forehand error, he suddenly looks at three break points.

He needs to take one of these: but Kokkinakis hits the line with a forehand winner for the first, and Murray roars as the second slides past too.

And that’s just too good: Kokkinakis attacks Murray’s backhand and then comes up with a lovely touch at the net. Such a lovely shot.

Ace. That’s heartbreaking for Murray.

But Murray doesn’t give up. He flicks a nice forehand done the line and gets it back to deuce.

Kokkinakis gets the first-serve in, and then comes up with the flying forehand winner.

Another forehand onto the line from Kokkinakis - Murray gets it back, and it forces the rare mistake!

Back to deuce.

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 0-2 Thanasi Kokkinakis* - Kokkinakis breaks

13:40 , Jamie Braidwood

Simply sublime from Kokkinakis, who blasts an opening forehand winner on the Murray serve. A backhand into the net from Murray sees him looking at 0-30, and the forehand long from Murray looks tired.

Three break points for Kokkinakis: and he takes it as a horrible forehand goes long from Murray.

That hard road back now looks even longer.

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 0-1 Thanasi Kokkinakis

13:37 , Jamie Braidwood

Kokkinakis plays a delightful dipped volley at 30-30, as Murray shrugs his shoulders. What can I do, he asks, and as Kokkinakis serves it out that answer is looking increasingly difficult to find.

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-7 Thanasi Kokkinakis - Kokkinakis wins the second set

13:28 , Jamie Braidwood

There’s a long way back for Murray now. Kokkinakis’ level has not dropped at all.

Murray only made seven unforced errors in that set and gave very little away, but Kokkinakis has blasted his way through.

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-6 Thanasi Kokkinakis - Tiebreak!

13:25 , Jamie Braidwood

Too good, again, from Kokkinakis. Murray’s defence is brilliant but Kokkinakis keeps calm and finds the forehand winner into the space. 2-5

Murray with the backhand dropshot slice, Kokkinakis races to the net - and finds the backhand pass! 2-6

Four set points: Murray saves the first with a forehand down the line, but two to come on the Kokkinakis serve... 3-6

Interesting... double fault from Kokkinakis... 4-6

But he responds with an ace down the middle! There’s the set!

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-6 Thanasi Kokkinakis - Tiebreak!

13:20 , Jamie Braidwood

Back to the backhand duel on the opening point, Murray plays it well but then can’t finish it off at the net, as he skews the forehand volley! Kokkinakis with the early mini-break. 0-1

Kokkinakis then steps on the forehand - brutal power again from the Australian - Murray looks angry with something as he nets. 0-2

Ace from Kokkinakis. Too good. 0-3

A break off the netcord for Murray - he needed that, as he puts away the forehand volley. 1-3

Ace from Murray! Great timing. 2-3

And that’s excellent from Kokkinakis to get to the change of ends. He approaches the net and then stays cool to put away the volley. 2-4

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-6 Thanasi Kokkinakis - Tiebreak!

13:18 , Jamie Braidwood

Now Kokkinakis has to serve to stay in the set. He starts off well with a forehand volley at the net, and then a two big first serves - solid from the Australian.

40-0, and Kokkinakis gets through to the tiebreak but planting a clever ball on the baseline.

Huge tiebreak to come next.

Australian Open 2023: Andy Murray 4-6 6-5 Thanasi Kokkinakis*

13:13 , Jamie Braidwood

Even by his standards, Murray’s determination has been put to the test here, but it’s starting to shine through. He steers a lovely backhand into the open court and the big swings from Kokkinakis are starting to turn into misses after so many hits. Murray holds to edge ahead in this second set.

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 5-5 Thanasi Kokkinakis - Murray breaks!

13:08 , Jamie Braidwood

A double fault from Kokkinakis - his first of the match! - on deuce sees Murray have a look at another break point!

And finally Kokkinakis misses! Murray hangs on, brilliant defence from the 35-year-old even as Kokkinakis hit the line, and then the Australian pushes wide!

He breaks back, his first break of the match, and after saving three set points!

Australian Open 2023: *Andy Murray 4-6 4-5 Thanasi Kokkinakis

13:03 , Jamie Braidwood

After the attacks from Kokkinakis, the Australian finds his cool to deliver a first serve and forehand combination, taking the first two points of a crucial service game.

A backhand winner down the line from Murray gets him back into it at 30-15, but then Kokkinakis steps in well.

Two set points, for a two-set lead.

A chance: Murray draws Kokkinakis into the net, and the Australian can’t squeeze his way past.

Winner from Murray! Wow, that was clutch. He targets the Kokkinakis and blasts through with the forehand winner.

Deuce.

WINNER FROM MURRAY! Straight down the line off the Kokkinakis serve!

Break point now: insane defence from Murray, but Kokkinakis holds on, and then produces a brilliant forehand down the line!

Deuce - and a forehand winner down the line from Kokkinakis. He just isn’t missing.

Another set point: but Murray hangs in! A stunning drop shot is followed by a lob from Murray, as Kokkinakis nets!

What a game this is.

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