Federer edges Simon in five-set thriller

Defending champion Roger Federer has won a gripping five-setter against Frenchman Gilles Simon to advance to the third round at the Australian Open.

The world number was pegged back from a two-set lead and needed five match points before finally prevailing 6-2, 6-3, 4-6, 4-6, 6-3.

The Rod Laver Arena showdown lasted three hours and 13 minutes.

Meanwhile, third seed Novak Djokovic also secured passage to the next round with a 7-5, 6-7 (8-10), 6-0, 6-2 defeat of Ivan Dodig.

News From: www.abc.net.au