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'Dreams come true': Chung knocks out Novak

Six-time Australian Open champion Novak Djokovic has been knocked out by South Korean rising star Hyeon Chung in the fourth round on Monday night.

Chung won 7-6 (7-4) 7-5 7-6 (7-3) in three hours and 25 minutes on Rod Laver Arena to book the most unlikely of quarter-final meetings with the American Tennys Sandgren on Wednesday.

The 21-year-old is the first Korean man or woman to reach the final eight of a grand slam.

Channel 7 commentator Jim Courier praised Chung for his defensive shotmaking and likened it to the man across the net -- his idol growing up.

"When I was young I'm just trying to copy Novak because he's my idol," said the world No.58.

"I can't believe this tonight, dreams come true tonight."

Djokovic met his match in Chung. Pic: Getty
Djokovic met his match in Chung. Pic: Getty

Djokovic struggled with his injured elbow for much of the match, serving nine double faults and sending numerous shots outside the lines.

The Serbian looked set for a quick loss when he was in an 0-4 hole early in the first set but fought a tough battle despite his shortcomings.

Still, Chung's inspired tennis meant this was the first time Djokovic had been down two sets to love at the Australian Open since his fourth-round loss to eventual champion Roger Federer in 2007.

Forcing himself back on tour after six months out resting and rehabilitating his elbow, the obvious pain suggests Djokovic's immediate future is unclear once more.

He insisted prior to the tournament that he had not had surgery on his elbow but was tight-lipped on the exact nature of his injury and how he was managing his pain.

"Djokovic in trouble," former Wimbledon champion Pat Cash posted on Twitter as Chung pressed his advantage.

"Elbow seems to be bothering him and he's not even running to some balls. Injuries seems to be weighing on him physically and mentally now.

"Sad to see the six time champ still struggle with injuries after 6 months of rest and rehab."

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with AAP