Novak Djokovic began his season with straight set wins but Nick Kyrgios’ return to singles action did not go according to his plans at the Brisbane International on Tuesday.
Djokovic tamed local favourite Rinky Hijikata 6-3, 6-3 in what was the top-seeded Serbian’s first tour-level singles match since October.
A day after his doubles victory alongside Kyrgios, Djokovic was precise with his serve and groundstrokes as he outclassed Hijikata and greeted the applauding audience with a gesture of playing the violin.
He will meet two-time Australian Open quarterfinalist Gael Monfils in the second round.
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“I always expect myself to do well on the court,” Djokovic said in an on-court interview, “To start off the new season with a win, it’s very important.”
When asked to send a message to his new team member, Andy Murray, he said, “He’s skiing right now , he’s got a ski vacation planned with his family. I send my love to the Murray family.
“I hope he doesn’t get injured before he comes to Melbourne. We talked before the match, we do it every day. I’m thrilled to have him on my team. For more than 20 years he’s been on the other side of the net, for the first time we’ll be on the same side.”
Earlier, Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard fired 36 aces to beat Kyrgios 7-6(2) 6-7(4) 7-6(3) in a battle of big servers at the Pat Rafter Arena.
(with inputs from Reuters)
Content Source: sportstar.thehindu.com