Novak Djokovic overcame a second-set stumble to stay on track for a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title after a four-set victory over Jaime Faria at the Australian Open on Wednesday.

The 10-time tournament winner defeated the talented 21-year-old 6-1, 6-7 (4), 6-3, 6-2 in three hours. Although Faria's hard-hitting play occasionally flustered Djokovic, the Serb's defensive brilliance helped him navigate through the challenges.

In the third round, Djokovic will face 26th seed Tomas Machac, who came from behind to beat Reilly Opelka in five sets.

Playing on his favored Rod Laver Arena, the site of many of his most iconic triumphs, Djokovic extended his streak of 18 consecutive second-round appearances in Melbourne.

Ranked 120th, Faria is a rising star, as evidenced by his commanding win over Russian Pavel Kotov in the opening round of his Grand Slam debut. However, the pressure of the center court seemed to get the better of the young player.

Djokovic seized the opportunity, raising his level of play after a sluggish opening-round victory over 17-year-old American wildcard Nishesh Basavareddy.

However, the 37-year-old was far from satisfied. Frustrated with his performance, he hit his racquet on the table beside his chair during the changeover after the fifth game. The outburst seemed to fuel Djokovic, who responded by producing clean ball striking and delicate drop shots to seal the first set.

The second set appeared to be under control for Djokovic, who broke Faria in the third game with a backhand winner. But errors began to creep into Djokovic's game, including a misfired smash into the net, allowing Faria to win four consecutive games.

Trailing 5-2, Djokovic showed his trademark resilience, winning three games in a row, capped by a remarkable 29-shot rally that had fans on their feet. Djokovic raised his arms in celebration after the intense exchange.

Yet, his mood soured when he was distracted by the arena lights, which were turned on as the sky darkened. Faria capitalized on the shift in momentum and clinched the tiebreak with a sublime drop shot.

The match was briefly halted early in the third set due to rain before the retractable roof was closed. Djokovic adapted quickly to the indoor conditions and broke Faria in the sixth game, gaining control of the match.

The Serb began the fourth set with an immediate break and pushed forward, closing out the match with his 14th ace. 

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