But, as in Adelaide, the fourth seed walked out to loud cheers and chants of “Nole”, with vocal backing during the match from a stadium awash with Serbian flags.
Novak Djokovic of Serbia in action against Roberto Carballes Baena. Photo: EPA-EFE
“Thank you for giving me such a welcoming reception that I could only dream of,” said Djokovic, who is chasing a record-equalling 22nd major title.
“I feel really happy that I’m back here in Australia and on the court where I have had the biggest success in my career.
“Definitely this court is the most special court in my life and I couldn’t ask for a better start to the tournament.”
Novak Djokovic speaks to the media after winning his first round match. Photo: Reuters
He arrived at Melbourne Park in sizzling form after ending 2022 by winning another ATP Finals title, then followed that up by triumphing at the Adelaide International.
As if that was not daunting enough for 75th-ranked Carballes Baena, Djokovic came into the clash having won his last 21 Australian Open matches.
He opened with an ace, but did not have it all his own way at first, needing to save three break points in the fifth game.
But he quickly settled and broke the next game to love for a 4-2 lead and closed out the set.
Novak Djokovic hits a return during the men’s singles first round. Photo: Xinhua
His hamstring appeared to trouble him briefly when he slid for a shot at 2-2 in the next set, but he pressed on and broke again for 4-3 when Carballes Baena netted a forehand.
Djokovic stepped up a level as the clock ticked past midnight in Melbourne and he immediately broke in the third set, with the Spaniard out of answers as the former world No 1 surged to victory.
Asked afterwards about the welcome he was given, Djokovic said: “Very much appreciated. I felt very welcome on the court, especially the Serbian community that is big here in Australia has welcomed me in an incredible way.
“So much support. So much love. I could not ask for a better start of the tournament in terms of support, in terms of how I felt on the court and also playing.”
He will play Bolivian Hugo Dellien or French qualifier Enzo Couacaud in the second round.
Rafael Nadal serves during against Jack Draper at the Australian Open. Photo: Xinhua
In Djokovic’s absence last year, long-time rival Rafael Nadal won the title to claim a 21st grand slam which he stretched to 22 at the French Open.
Djokovic won Wimbledon to take his haul to 21 and he has made no secret about wanting more.
He said the left hamstring problem which has been bothering him for more than a week had been of no real concern.
“The leg is good. It’s not ideal, but it’s getting there. Today was a really good test,” he said.
“Haven’t had too much training in the last few days, to be honest with you, tennis-wise.
“I’m actually really glad that it felt better as the match progressed. The third set was great. That’s a good signal, a good sign.”
For all the latest Sports News Click Here
For the latest news and updates, follow us on Google News.
