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.

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”.

John McEnroe has become the latest tennis figure to speak out on Danielle Collins ’ controversial Australian Open behaviour. The world No. 11 was heavily booed by the crowd after her second-round match when she gestured to kiss her bottom and reminded those who “hated” her that they were “paying her bills”.

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.

Novak Djokovic supports Danielle Collins for her assertive response to hecklers at the Australian Open, reflecting a trend where tennis players engage more with vocal spectators. Both athletes demonstrate how tennis is evolving,

Danielle Collins stood up for herself when confronted with a booing crowd at the Australian Open on Thursday which was angry that she was beating a local player, Destanee Aiava.