WATCH: Novak Djokovic melts hearts with special fans in adorable Australian Open moment on controversial day

Novak Djokovic was moved by the presence of his oldest fans, Jan (pronounced Yan) and his wife during his fourth-round match against Czech tennis star, Jiri Lehecka. The couple was greeted with a warm hug by the Serb, as Barbara Schett-Eagles, former Austrian ATP star, invited them over to meet Djokovic during an interview with her after the match.

Jan and his wife had their first encounter with the GOAT, 20 years ago in Australia. To honor their love for him, Djokovic provided them with tickets to his match today.

They wore matching T-shirts that had Djokovic and Jan's first photo together and the phrase "Life is Tennis" inscribed on them.

Djokovic sailed through the 4th round of the Australian Open with a show of great footwork and unbelievable volleys throughout the game. He was later spotted donning the same t-shirt gifted by Jan when he cooled off in the players' gym right after the match.

The 38-year-old advanced to his 15th Australian Open quarterfinals, equaling Roger Federer's record after beating Czech Jiri Lehecka 6-3, 6-4, 7-6(4). He is set to face the young gun, Carlos Alcaraz in his quarterfinal match-up.

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"I stand by my decision" - Djokovic clarifies the reason for his controversial exit after 4R win

Novak Djokovic addresses the press for his actions - Source: Getty

Novak Djokovic has always been a crowd favorite as he ensures to take time out for them after every match to sign gears, thank them or just engage in funny banter, once in a while. However, something unusual took place after today's match as interviewer Jim Courier was let go with just a one-line "thank you" by the star.

Djokovic later took to X to clarify his reaction. He claims that the reason for boycotting the interview was due to Channel 9 broadcast host, Tony Jones mocking Serbian fans on-air and that he stands by his decision to do so.

He also took the matter up during the post-match press conference and said that he is not scared of being fined:

“If you guys want to fine me, I'll accept that 'cause I feel this is something that needs to be done.’ That's all there is to it,” said Djokovic.

Many famous personalities have come in support of the tennis icon's decision and shown solidarity with him on the internet.

Djokovic is set to lock horns with Carlos Alcaraz on Tuesday (Jan. 21), after their last encounter in the 2024 Paris Olympics gold-medal match where the Serb took home the victory. With a head-to-head record of 4-3 led by Djokovic in their last 7 matches, the stage is all set for an exciting clash.