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Marinko Matosevic: 'I'm improving my game with age'

Australian Marinko Matosevic claims that he is a "late bloomer" after picking up his first victory at the Australian Open at the fifth time of asking.

Marinko Matosevic believes that he is 'maturing with age' having set up a meeting with Andy Murray in the second round of the Australian Open.

The world number 81 edged out Alexander Kudryavtsev in five sets earlier today to advance through on his home turf.

It was Matosevic's first triumph at the Grand Slam event, and at the age of 29 he insists that he may be improving his all-round game as the years tick by.

"I guess I'm maturing in my old age," he told reporters. "I'm definitely a late bloomer. I guess mentally-wise as well I'm a late-bloomer in that department as well."

Matosevic also leapt to the defence of Melbourne Park spectators after Kudryavtsev allegedly slammed their 'animal-like' behaviour during their encounter on the opening day of the tournament.

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Daniel Lewis
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Alexander Kudryavtsev of Russia plays a backhand in his first round match against Marinko Matosevic of Australia during day one of the 2015 Australian Open on January 19, 2015
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