IT TURNS out history counts for nothing.

Despite only losing one set in their five previous encounters, world number two and six-time Australian Open champion Novak Djokovic was defeated in five sets by qualifier Denis Istomin.

Making the loss all the more confounding was Istomin’s ranking: a lowly 117.

Djokovic’s shock exit reverberated around Rod Laver Arena and all of Melbourne Park, as the man who has recently been most synonymous with the Open left without making a mark on the second week of the tournament.

In fact, it will be the first time since Wimbledon 2008 that Djokovic won’t progress to the round of 32.

And here in Melbourne, it will be the first time in an astonishing 10 years that the former world number one won’t figure in the quarterfinals.

The King’s run at the Australian Open has come to an end.

Speaking to Channel 7 after the biggest win of his life, Istomin indicated he had played the best game of his life to defeat Djokovic.

“I feel sorry for Novak. I was playing so good today,” Istomin said.

“I mean, I surprised myself also today.”

Despite his modest record against Djokovic, it was clear from the first game — which lasted 16 minutes — that the match was going to be closer than history suggested.

Both players scrapped, cramped, dropped serve and broke for the best part of five hours.

But for Istomin, it ultimately validated that he belonged on the tour.

“It is the bigger win for me, and it means so much,” he said.

“So now I can feel that I can play with these guys and to be with them on the same level.”

With Djokovic out, the second half of the draw has opened up dramatically, particularly for seeds Rafael Nadal and Milos Raonic.

DJOKOVIC ALL CLASS

Barely twenty minutes had passed before Djokovic fronted the media.

He was calm, well considered and generous in explaining what had gone wrong in the middle of Rod Laver Arena.

And despite having never lost to his opponent, he indicated Istomin was a deserved winner.

“All the credit to Denis for playing amazing,” Djokovic said.

“He deserved to win. No doubt, he was a better player in the clutch moments. He stepped it up, played aggressive. Served very well, very precise. There’s not much I could do.

“Of course, I was not pleased with my performance overall. But, you know, I have to congratulate my opponent today.”

Djokovic said the hurt would continue to burn for the foreseeable future, particularly given his recent love affair with the first grad slam of the calendar year.

“I’m not used to losing in Australian Open second round,” Djokovic said.

“I’ve always played so well. Throughout last 10 years, I’ve won six titles here. This court has been so nice to me. I enjoyed it very much.

“Of course, it’s disappointing. But the end of the day I have to accept it.”

HOW THE WORLD REACTED

The surprise wasn’t limited to Melbourne Park.

Here’s how the stunning upset was received throughout the world.