Novak Djokovic defeated Constant Lestienne at the Adelaide International to win his first singles match in Australia since being expelled last year.
In his most memorable singles match in Australia since being ousted last year, Novak Djokovic crushed Steady Lestienne on Tuesday, winning 6-3, 6-2. The Serb, 35, was kicked out just before the 2022 Australian Open because he didn’t have the Coronavirus vaccine. Additionally, he was required to leave the country for three years; Be that as it may, in November, the limitation was lifted.
Djokovic began his preparations for the Australian Open, which takes place from January 16 to 29, against world number 65 Lestienne by sprinting through the main set, where he was largely invited by fans during a charming match appearance. Djokovic, a 21-time Grand Slam champion, double-broke Lestienne before the Frenchman could break him in the second set. Fans chanted Djokovic’s name after he won the match in style.
“I have to say, I’m glad to be back in Australia, thank you all for coming out,” Djokovic said on the court. I am grateful for the warm welcome.
“… Assuming I needed to pick one country, this would be the one where I have had the most achievement and the best tennis treatment. I have won the Australian Open nine times, winning in 2008 with a big home run; I’ve had some fantastic fights.
“I’m anticipating coming here since Australia has forever been where I play my best tennis. Despite the irksome circumstances that existed last year, I’m glad to be here, center around tennis, and participate as far as I can tell with all of you.”
Djokovic will be the next opponent Quentin Halys, a Frenchman who defeated an Australian, Jordan Thompson, 6-3, 6-4.
Daniil Medvedev, a former U.S. Open champion, also advanced to the second round of the ATP 250 tournament when Lorenzo Sonego retired with a right arm injury while trailing 7-6(6) 2-1. Medvedev was defeated by Rafa Nadal in the Melbourne Park final last year. To win the first set, he saved nine set points.
“That is truly crazy,” Medvedev said. For the first time in my life, I probably had nine set points in reserve.
What a perfect match to kick off the new year with! We were pleased to complete the task, despite the fact that we played for one hour and forty minutes. It was a pity for everyone that it did not end sooner. Medvedev will face Serbian Miomir Kecmanovic in the quarterfinals.