New Delhi: Serbian ace Novak Djokovic began his quest for a record 25th Grand Slam title with a convincing victory against Nishesh Basavareddy in the first round of the Australian Open 2025 on Monday, January 13. Djokovic dropped the first set but came from behind to beat USA’s Basavareddy 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 to progress to the second round of the tournament.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion did appear a bit rusty in the opening set but buried any doubts over his form and fitness by showcasing his class to bounce back in the second set. Basavareddy saved a break point to hold at 2-2 in the second set but Djokovic broke the American in the 8th game to eventually clinch the set 6-3 to level things at the Rod Laver Arena.
There was no stopping Djokovic after momentum shifted on his side as he comfortably bagged the next two sets to register a come-from-behind victory in his first-round clash. 19-year-old Basavareddy struggled with injury and dehydration issues while also juggling between Djokovic’s fitness and resilience in the middle but produced a spirited display to make it as difficult as he could for the 10-time Australian Open champion.
Basavareddy, who turned professional last year, shone on his grand debut against one of the greatest of all time – Djokovic at the Australian Open. Basavareddy started the contest on a high by taking the first set against the 24-time Grand Slam champion before making him toil hard for a victory in the rest of the game. The 19-year-old forced a double fault from Djokoic on match point in the 4th set, showcasing his talent and temperament.
Basavareddy got applause from the crowd at the Rod Laver Arena for his spirited display and also earned appreciation from Djokovic, his idol as he left the court following the conclusion of the game. Djokovic joined the likes of Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner among the top contenders who progressed to the second round on the 2nd day of the tournament.
Djokovic lauds Basavareddy for his fight
Djokovic lauded Basavareddy for the fight shown by the 19-year-old while speaking in the post-match interview. The 24-time Grand Slam champion said the American was a better player for a set and a half at the start of the game and handled himself really well on the big stage.
“In the end, it was a great result. I think he was the better player for a set and a half, and he deserves every bit of the applause that he got when he was leaving the court. It was a great performance from him,” said the Serbian, who is chasing a record-extending 11th Australian Open title this year.
Nick Kyrgios knocked out of Australian Open 2025
Nick Kyrgios got knocked out of the Australian Open 2025 after suffering a shock defeat at the hands of Britain’s Jacob Fearnley in the first round on Monday. Kyrgios was stunned on his much-anticipated Grand Slam comeback as 92nd-ranked Fearnley beat him 7-6 (3), 6-3, 7-6 (1). Fearnley was only broken once throughout the match as he proved to be too good for Kyrgios, who looked out of touch and lacked serving power on his comeback after dealing with multiple injury issues.
Novak Djokovic came from behind to beat Nishesh Basavareddy 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 to begim his campaign at the Australian Open 2025 with a victory. Tennis Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
