Big weapons Nick Kyrgios and Novak Djokovic have taken robust steps ahead of their respective Australian Open title bids, dispelling damage fears throughout an entertaining exhibition conflict.
Djokovic was given a heat welcome by followers at a sold-out Rod Laver Arena on Friday evening as he returned to Melbourne Park for the primary time since final yr’s deportation saga.
The nine-time Australian Open winner confirmed no indicators of the hamstring situation that has troubled him this month and repeatedly performed as much as the gang throughout the light-hearted hit-out for charity.
Kyrgios pulled out of the current United Cup and Adelaide International tournaments with knee and ankle complaints and has not performed a severe match since late final yr.
But Australia’s top-ranked participant – the host nation’s greatest shot at one other Open crown after Ash Barty’s drought-breaking victory final yr – moved properly towards Djokovic in a optimistic signal for his hopes of going deep into the second week.
Djokovic, who beat Kyrgios in final yr’s Wimbledon ultimate and is on a quarter-final collision course with the native firebrand in Melbourne, was filled with reward for the nineteenth seed, who takes on world No.98 Roman Safiullin within the first spherical.
“He’s 2-1 against me, so as far as I’m concerned he can win anything,” Djokovic stated.
Djokovic opens his bid for a record-extending tenth Australian Open title towards Spaniard Roberto Carballes Baena.
After having fun with a “fantastic” response from followers in Adelaide this month, the Serbian celebrity admitted he was not sure how he could be acquired in Melbourne a yr after he was deported over his unvaccinated standing.
But any fears had been put to mattress when an emotional Djokovic walked into Rod Laver Arena to loud cheers from the gang on Friday evening.
“It just feels great to be back in Australia, back in Melbourne,” Djokovic stated.
“This is the court and the stadium where I created the best memories of my professional tennis career.
“Back in 2008 was the primary time I gained a grand slam, it was right here, and 15 years later I’m right here once more and I’m competing on the excessive degree.
“I must be very grateful for this opportunity to be here so thank you guys (the fans) for welcoming me in a good way tonight.”
Kyrgios, who had beforehand known as Djokovic a “tool” and mocked his post-match celebrations, defended his rival amid the deportation saga.
During the exhibition match, the foes-turned-friends delivered trick photographs, pretend outbursts and mid-match interviews with the tv broadcaster as they put their new ‘bromance’ on full present.
They took a set every below Fast4 situations earlier than teaming up with wheelchair gamers and juniors for a third-set tiebreak.
