Novak Djokovic nonetheless has loads of love for the nation that deported him, saying he acquired the reception he wished for in his triumphant return to singles motion in Australia.
Djokovic booked a spot within the second spherical of the Adelaide Worldwide 1 with a thumping 6-Three 6-2 win over Frenchman Fixed Lestienne on Tuesday.
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It was his first singles match in Australia since being deported final January for refusing to have the COVID-19 vaccine.
The 21-time grand slam champion acquired a rousing reception when he stepped out on court docket on Tuesday, and he didn’t disappoint his adoring followers.
Djokovic’s energy, court docket velocity, and deft work on the internet proved an excessive amount of to deal with for Lestienne, with the match lasting simply 74 minutes.
The world No.5, who misplaced his low-key doubles match on Monday, repeatedly touched his coronary heart earlier than signaling to the gang and the sky upon profitable his singles match.
He additionally kissed his hand and touched the court docket, later saying he was delighted to be again within the nation the place he received 9 of his 21 grand slam trophies.
“I am glad to be again in Australia,” Djokovic stated in his post-match on-court interview.
“Thanks all for popping out as we speak. Thanks for giving me the welcome that I might solely want for.
“Over time, Australia has been the place the place I’ve performed my finest tennis, no doubt.
“If I’ve to choose one nation the place I’ve had probably the most success, which handled me in the easiest way by way of tennis, it is right here, positively.
“Even the circumstances final yr, it wasn’t straightforward for anyone. However I am simply pleased to be right here specializing in tennis, and having fun with my time with you guys.”
The outcome units up a spherical of 16 conflict with Frenchman Quentin Halys, who defeated Australian Jordan Thompson in straight units on Monday.
Djokovic misplaced simply 5 factors on serve in the course of the opening set, however did have to save lots of a break level within the fifth sport.
The 35-year-old took the opening set in 38 minutes, and raced to a 4-Zero lead within the second as Lestienne’s frustrations began to boil over.
The Frenchman slammed his racket into the court docket after dropping a internet battle towards Djokovic, and his physique language slumped the longer the match went on.
“For the primary match, I can not complain,” Djokovic stated.
“I performed very effectively. I believed the primary six video games had been very aggressive.
“However as soon as I made that break, I felt like I stepped it up one or two ranges and performed actually good tennis.
