Novak Djokovic's path to a record 25th Grand Slam title grew clearer when his fourth-round opponent, Jakub Mensik, withdrew from the Australian Open with an abdominal injury. The 20-year-old Czech, who had beaten Djokovic in last year's Miami final, was unable to continue after his run to the last 16.

Djokovic, who hasn't dropped a set in Melbourne, now progresses directly to the quarter-finals. He'll face either Lorenzo Musetti or Taylor Fritz in the last eight. A potential semi-final against Jannik Sinner and a final against Carlos Alcaraz could follow if seeds hold.

For Mensik, reaching the fourth round of a major for the first time was a career milestone. The 16th seed had won titles in Auckland and Miami last year, catapulting him into the world's top 25. His withdrawal leaves the 38-year-old Serb in a strong position to capture his 11th Australian Open title.