New York - Novak Djokovic won over the toughest crowd in tennis as he lured television commentator and former great John McEnroe onto the court post-match for a hit-and-giggle at the US Open. The Serb fourth seed dispatched Radek Stepanek in the fourth round and then took the opportunity to polish his image with the New York public. Two years, ago, Djokovic was a crowd darling with his imitations of fellow players - a roaring delight for fans, not so great for his colleagues.
Last year, the tide turned, with Djokovic copping it from local hero Andy Roddick as the American complained about his winning opponent's long list of injuries and excuses.
But it all turned out fine for Djokovic as he and Mac had their fun after the player called on live TV for the former great to come on down from the broadcast booth for a hit.
McEnroe shed his tie and found a pair of tennis shoes as he made his way onto court in dress pants and shirt to the cheers of thousands.
Djokovic mimicked the easy-to-spot McEnroe serving style while the American did the same with the Serb's habit of bouncing the ball multiple times before a point before they played a few points in all seriousness.
"It was quite funny and the crowd loved it," said Djokovic. "That was the most important thing. I like to entertain them. Maybe they wanted to see more tennis as the match only went three sets, but I think we gave them a good show after."
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NOTEBOOK: Murray reportedly to team with Robson at Hopman Cup =
New York - Hot property Andy Murray is reportedly ready to shake up his schedule to team with British teen queen Laura Robson at January's Hopman Cup teams event.
Britain made an appearance at the inaugural edition of the eight- nation event two decades ago, but has been missing since.
Murray has traditionally started his season in the Gulf at the Doha ATP tournament before travelling to Australia for a week of training before the start of the Open.
But with a top junior in Australian-born Robson and Murray standing second in the world behind Roger Federer, an invite into the field was a natural for organizers.
Murray and Robson are friendly and have had the odd hit at the National Tennis Centre in Roehampton, London. "We are not besties but we do chat," the 15-year-old Robson said of her friendship with the country's top ATP player.
Russia with Igonr Andreev and Elena Dementieva and Australia with Lleyton Hewitt and Sam Stosur are also entered with more teams to be revealed in the coming months.
