Djokovic is back in Australia after extradition scandal 1:03
(CNN) --
Novak Djokovic received a warm welcome ahead of his victory in the first round of the Australian Open, defeating Spaniard Roberto Carballes Baena 6-3 6-4 6-0.
With that match he resumed his attempts to win his 22nd men's Grand Slam title, currently tied for a record.
In his first Australian Open match since winning the 2021 title in Melbourne, Djokovic received cheers as he walked onto the court at Rod Laver Arena.
There were several Serbian flags in the crowd, and fans chanted the 35-year-old's nickname "Nole" after the nine-time Australian Open champion entered the court.
Novak Djokovic says deportation from Australia helped him 'achieve great results'
“Amazing atmosphere, thank you all for staying so late,” Djokovic said to loud applause and cheers in his post-match interview.
"Also thank you for giving me such a welcome and dream reception."
“I am very happy to be back in Australia and on the court where I have had the most success of my career.
This court is the most special of my life," he added.
Fourth at the Australian Open and currently ranked No. 5 in the world, Djokovic played a reduced schedule during 2022 due to his decision not to get vaccinated against covid-19.
He was deported from Australia before the start of the 2022 Australian Open and was unable to travel to compete in some tournament venues, including the United States, due to his vaccination status.
advertising
Novak Djokovic at the Australian Open (Credit: MARTIN KEEP/AFP via Getty Images)
The tennis player told reporters before the start of the tournament that he has been struggling with a hamstring problem, and was seen with a bandage around his left leg.
However, at the close of the match in the early hours of Wednesday morning he looked strong on the pitch in Melbourne which allayed any concerns about his fitness.
Djokovic's opponent in the second round will be either Enzo Couacaud of France or Hugo Dellien of Bolivia.
The first round match was moved to this Wednesday in Melbourne after rain prevented play on the outer courts.
Australian Open 2021 Novak Djokovic
