Novak Djokovic Begins Australian Open Quest with a Hard-Fought Victory
NEW DELHI: Novak Djokovic has officially kicked off his campaign for an 11th Australian Open title and a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam. The 37-year-old Serbian faced an unexpected challenge from American teenager Nishesh Basavareddy, who made waves by taking the first set. However, Djokovic rallied to secure a 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 victory.
A Rocky Start Against a Rising Star
In what was Basavareddy’s Grand Slam debut, the 19-year-old showcased remarkable skill and poise, stunning the crowd at Melbourne Park. Djokovic appeared flat-footed initially, struggling with unforced errors and failing to convert break points. Basavareddy capitalized on the opportunity, winning the first set and leaving Djokovic with a lot to ponder.
Turning the Tide
After losing the first set, Djokovic found his rhythm in the second. He broke Basavareddy to lead 5-3 and leveled the match with a triumphant roar. The American teenager, who had been impressive early on, required treatment for a leg issue, which allowed Djokovic to tighten his grip on the match and eventually secure the win.
A New Chapter Under Andy Murray
This victory marks not only Djokovic’s 18th consecutive second-round appearance at the Australian Open but also the beginning of a new partnership with his coach, Andy Murray. After a challenging 2024 season that saw Djokovic face difficulties in the Grand Slam circuit, the Serbian is eager to reclaim his dominance and surpass Margaret Court’s record of 24 Grand Slam titles.
What’s Next?
Looking ahead, Djokovic will face Portuguese qualifier Jaime Faria in the second round. As he embarks on this journey, sports enthusiasts can stay updated with the latest happenings in the world of tennis and beyond at Looffers.com, your go-to source for engaging content and exciting promotions.
