"I was stressed out in the end" - Djokovic admits following rain-interrupted win over Fritz

Tensions were high on Center Court on Tuesday at the Internazionali BNL D'Italia Rome, but top seed Novak Djokovic was able to battle past Taylor Fritz and book his spot in the third round.

Both players had to deal with several rain interruptions, which led to the World No.1 losing his cool and having some choice words for the umpire. However, once the rain subsided, he was able to regain composure and secure a 6-3 7-6(5) over his American opponent.

"It was a very strange match with strange conditions. Obviously playing under the rain non-stop for almost two full sets, it is challenging for both me and him," Djokovic said after the match. "I thought that I had an advantage there because the conditions were slower which allows me to return his serves, because he's got really big serves."

The duo last met in the third round of the Australian Open, with Djokovic prevailing in five sets. However, the World No.1 had a relatively easier encounter this time, overcoming Fritz and the weather to book his place in the third round.

"I kind of kept the match under my control for most part of the two sets, then served for the match; very sloppy service game," added Djokovic. "He played well, made a great passing shot to come back. I was stressed out in the end obviously, but I think it was the right call to stop the match."

The Serbian improves to 4-0 in career meetings against Fritz, and next faces the winner between Cameron Norrie and Alejandro Davidovich Fokina.