Andy Murray produced another barely believable display to fight back after two sets to beat Thanasi Kokkinakis in an epic Australian Open match ending at 04:05 local time.
In one of the last finishes in tennis history, Murray won 4-6 6-7 (4-7) 7-6 (7-5) 6-3 7-5 on a night of endurance physically and mentally exhausting.
The second-round match started at 10:20 p.m. and lasted five hours 45 minutes.
It was the longest competition in Murray’s checkered career, 35.
The exhausted Briton remained impassive after taking his first match point before the two players enjoyed a warm embrace at the net.
With his mother Judy in tears in the stands, he then let out a huge roar as he contemplated one of the best comebacks of his career.
A healthy and boisterous crowd remained inside the Margaret Court Arena until the end, showing their appreciation for the efforts of both men and providing much needed vocal support.
The match is the second last finish in Australian Open history following a 2008 third round match between Lleyton Hewitt and Marcos Baghdatis which ended at 4:34.
More soon.
