World number one Ana Ivanovic admitted the tennis gods were on her side after surviving an almighty scare against Nathalie Dechy.

Ivanovic was forced to save two match points en route to a battling 6-7, 7-6, 10-8 marathon victory.

And the Serbian star revealed her heart was in her mouth when the ball clipped the net and fell in when match point down.

Ivanovic said: "I felt like time stopped for a moment.

"The ball hit the net and it was in the air for a couple of seconds.

"I thought the match would be over - it was just amazing.

"I just felt so, so lucky.

"I think someone from upstairs made the ball roll over."

Ivanovic admitted her stamina was sorely tested in a clash that passed the three-hour mark.

The Serb added: "I think it was the longest match I have ever played.

"It was very tough - physically and mentally.

"It was just who was going to hang in there longer."

The top seed no doubt hopes for an easier ride when she faces Jie Zheng in round three.

And Ivanovic will not be kicking up a fuss if a 50/50 moment goes against her.

She explained: "I'm really happy I have the day off tomorrow.

"I think I used up a lot of my luck today.

"If in my next match, my opponent has a let call against me, I won't complain because what goes around comes around."