Novak Djokovic cruised via his first singles match in Australia since being deported final yr with a 6-3 6-2 victory over Fixed Lestienne on the Adelaide Worldwide 1 on Tuesday. The 35-year-old Serb was deported on the eve of the 2022 Australian Open for not being vaccinated in opposition to COVID-19 and obtained a three-year journey ban for the nation, which was waived in November.
After being nicely obtained by followers throughout a uncommon doubles look on Monday, Djokovic started his preparations for the Jan. 16-29 Australian Open in opposition to world quantity 65 Lestienne by racing via the opening set. The 21-times Grand Slam champion turned up the warmth on his French opponent with a double break to go 4-0 up within the second set earlier than Lestienne acquired on the board, however Djokovic closed out the match in type as supporters chanted his identify.
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“I’ve to say, I am glad to be again in Australia, thanks all for popping out,” Djokovic mentioned on courtroom. “Thanks for giving me the welcome I may solely want for.
“… If I’ve to select one nation the place I’ve had probably the most success, which handled me in the easiest way by way of tennis, it is right here. I received my first Grand Slam right here in 2008 and I’ve 9 Australian Open titles – I’ve had some epic matches.
“Australia has been the place the place I play my greatest tennis and I look ahead to coming right here. The circumstances final yr have been as they have been and it wasn’t simple for anyone however I am pleased to be right here, deal with tennis and revel in my time with you guys.”
Up subsequent for world quantity 5 Djokovic is one other Frenchman in Quentin Halys, who beat Australian Jordan Thompson 6-3 6-4.
Former U.S. Open champion Daniil Medvedev additionally superior to the second spherical of the ATP 250 match when Lorenzo Sonego retired with a proper arm damage whereas trailing 7-6(6) 2-1.
Medvedev, who misplaced to Rafa Nadal in final yr’s Melbourne Park ultimate, saved 9 set factors to win the opening set.
“That is really loopy,” Medvedev mentioned. “In all probability the primary time in my life I’ve saved 9 set factors.
“What a match to begin the yr. Unlucky for everyone that it completed early in a means, even when we performed one hour and 40 minutes, however pleased to be via.” Medvedev performs Serbian Miomir Kecmanovic for a quarter-final spot.