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

 (EPA)
(EPA)

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.

“I have a big heart,” Murray said.

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