Give Djokovic a break, Murray tells Serb's critics

Tennis - Australian Open - Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia - 20/1/17 Britain's Andy Murray celebrates after winning his Men's singles third round match against Sam Querrey of the U.S. .REUTERS/Thomas Peter

MELBOURNE (Reuters) - Andy Murray has sprung to the defence of his great rival Novak Djokovic after the Serb's surprise exit at the Australian Open.

Djokovic, toppled as world number one by Murray at the end of last year, was sent packing by wildcard Denis Istomin in the second round to end his hopes of a seventh title at Melbourne Park.