'Big fan, I love it...' - WATCH: Novak Djokovic backs Danielle Collins after tense moment with fans at AO 2025

Serbian legend Novak Djokovic was really in awe of tennis star Danielle Collins's response to the Australian crowd after she thwarted home favourite Destanee Aiava in the second round of the 2025 Australian Open at Show Court Arena of the Melbourne Park on January 16. 

The 31-year-old tennis star had a great start to the game, winning the first set comfortably. However, the Aussie star staged her comeback and won the second set to level the game. Meanwhile, Collins showcased her stellar form and won the third set to head into the third round, where she will be facing Madison Keys on January 18.

After her great win, Collins shut down the rowdy crowd with a bold "Hulk Hogan" celebration. Collins put her hand to her ear and mimicked Hogan's popular move that was used as a taunt to the audience. The star player also blew kisses at the spectators.

In the same vein, Novak Djokovic heaped praise on Collins, saying that she was a "big fan" of hers after making it to the last 16 at Melbourne Park. Notably, the Serbian ace went through the pre-quarters after beating star player Tomas Machac by 6-1, 6-4, and 6-4 at the Rod Laver Arena on January 17.

Also Read: Australian Open 2025: Novak Djokovic storms into fourth round with blistering win over Tomas Machac

Serbian's ace comments on the Florida-born star drew mixed reactions from the fans, as few claimed that Djokovic was doing the right thing by supporting Collins, while some lashed out at him by reminiscing about Collins's behavior to the Aussie crowd, where he had won 10 titles.

Also Read: Australian Open 2025: Unseeded Alex Michelsen beats Karen Khachanov in third round

Novak Djokovic says he’s a big fan of Danielle Collins after her interaction with Australian Open crowd

“I loved her response.. everything she said on & off the court. Big fan of Danielle Collins after that. I was before, but now, big fan. I love it😂”

pic.twitter.com/MonyXJmPt2

— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) January 17, 2025

I was before, but now, big fan. I love it: Novak Djokovic

“I loved her response... everything she said on and off the court. Big fan of Danielle Collins after that. I was before, but now, big fan. I love it,” Djokovic said in the post-match press conference.

Little bit of prime "Hollywood" Hulk Hogan about Danielle Collins post match!#AO2025pic.twitter.com/nyusDgt3PP

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 16, 2025

"I think they really wanted for her to win badly. I think there were a lot of people that were super drunk and had a hard time controlling themselves and were really excited. All I have to say is good luck trying to get under the skin of somebody that really doesn't care,” Collins had said after her match.