Novak Djokovic made a profitable return to the Australian Open.
The Serbian beat Spain's Roberto Carballes Baena in straights units within the first spherical of the grand slam match on Tuesday.
Djokovic, a nine-time champion of the occasion, didn't play within the match final yr. He was deported from Australia for not being vaccinated towards COVID-19 regardless of offering a medical exemption.
Arriving in Rod Laver for his match, Djokovic was greeted with an enormous spherical of applause. All through the match, the gang cheered as the previous world No. 1 showcased his expertise, proving why he's the favourite to win the match for the tenth time.
"Thanks for giving me such a welcoming reception I can solely dream of," Djokovic advised the gang after the match. "I actually really feel very completely happy that I am again in Australia, again right here on the courtroom the place I had the most important success in my profession."
Whereas Djokovic entered the match as the favourite, many tennis observers saved a detailed eye on his heavily-strapped left thigh. He suffered an damage throughout the semifinals of a earlier occasion in Australia however nonetheless went on to win the match. He confirmed no indicators of discomfort within the match towards Carballes Baena.
Djokovic could have in the future off earlier than his second spherical match. He's searching for his twenty first grand slam title, which might tie him with Rafael Nadal for essentially the most main trophies in males's tennis.