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Novak Djokovic is celebrated by the audience in Adelaide
Photo: Brenton Edwards / AFP
Novak Djokovic has won his first singles of the new year.
The longtime number one in tennis prevailed against the French Constant Lestienne 6: 3, 6: 2 at the ATP tournament in Adelaide on Tuesday and thus advanced to the second round.
"I can't complain for my first match," said the 35-year-old Serb.
"I played very well."
The day before, Djoković lost 6: 4, 3: 6 and 5:10 in doubles against Gonzalo Escobar (Ecuador) and Tomislav Brkic (Bosnia and Herzegovina) alongside Canadian Vasek Pospisil.
However, he had been received very kindly on his return to Australia.
When he appeared in doubles, the audience celebrated him with loud applause and chants of »Novak, Novak«.
Entry ban lifted
A year ago, Djokovic had to leave the country before his first game at the Australian Open due to his lack of vaccination against the corona virus.
His visa had previously been canceled and an entry ban of three years imposed.
The entry ban has now been lifted by the Australian authorities.
"It's great to be back in Australia," the 21-time Grand Slam champion said after arriving last week.
He uses the tournament in Adelaide to prepare for the Australian Open in Melbourne, which begins on January 16th.
No proof of vaccination is currently required to enter Australia.
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