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Hewitt produces first round epic

Lleyton Hewitt has crashed out of the Australian Open after an enthralling five set match against bitter rival David Nalbandian.

Momentum swung wildly in the first round epic with Nalbandian getting the better of the contest 3-6 6-4 3-6 7-6 9-7.

The match lasted almost five hours and had the feel of a grand slam final with both players pushed to their limit.

Hewitt controlled the pace early on but failed to capitalise on several break points gifting Nalbandian easy passage into the later sets.

Spurred on by a rapturous home crowd Hewitt gave it his all in the final set, coming from 3-1 down to push Nalbandian to 9-7 in the final set.

Hewitt had an opportunity to close out the game with two match points on offer, but Nalbandian produced some amazing shots to stay alive.

Nalbandian struggled with cramping as the match progressed but was able to keep composed and advance to the second round.