Novak Djokovic says Roger Federer was "outstanding" at the Australian Open

The 2017 Australian Open was a painful experience for Novak Djokovic.

The world number two suffered a surprise exit at the hands of Denis Istomin in the second round, raising concerns about his attitude and possible burn-out.

Djokovic, a six-time champion in Melbourne, had to sit and watch Roger Federer take the crown from him in a bruising five-set battle with Rafael Nadal on Sunday.

So not only did the Serb endure a woeful tournament, he also had to deal with Federer and Nadal showcasing some of their best tennis again. It could be a very competitive year in men’s tennis.

Federer was seeded 17th heading in the tournament after an injury-hit 2016. At 35-years-old, and with little match fitness, he was a long shot to make it to the final, much less win the whole thing.