MELBOURNE – Novak Djokovic received a warm and enthusiastic welcome on his return to Melbourne during an exhibition match against Nick Kyrgios on Friday.
Djokovic was expelled ahead of last year’s Australian Open over a visa issue related to his refusal to know whether he had been vaccinated against COVID-19.
However, the nine-time Australian Open champion was allowed to return to this year’s tournament from Monday as vaccination requirements were dropped by the Australian government.
After experiencing a “fantastic” reaction from fans in Adelaide during a tournament last week, Djokovic admitted he wasn’t sure how he would be received in Melbourne a year after his deportation.
But an emotional Djokovic entered a sold-out Rod Laver Arena to loud cheers from the 15,000 spectators.
“It just feels great to be back in Australia, back in Melbourne,” said Djokovic. “This is the court and stadium where I created the best memories of my professional tennis career.
“In 2008 I won a Grand Slam for the first time, it was here, and 15 years later I’m here again, competing at a high level. I must be very grateful for this opportunity to be here, so thank you for welcoming me so well tonight.”
Djokovic showed no sign of the hamstring problem that has been worrying him this month and repeatedly played in front of the crowd during the light-hearted charity show.
Kyrgios has been eliminated from recent United Cup and Adelaide International tournaments with knee and ankle problems and has not played a serious game since late last year. But Australia’s top-ranked player did well against Djokovic, who beat him in the Wimbledon final last year. The two could meet in the quarterfinals at Melbourne Park.
Kyrgios takes on Roman Safiullin in the first round while Djokovic opens his bid for a 10th Australian Open title against Roberto Carballes Baena.
During the exhibition match, Djokovic and Kyrgios provided trick shots, fake outbursts and in-game TV interviews. They each won a set in Fast4 conditions before teaming up with wheelchair players and juniors for a third-set tiebreak.
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