Last year, the idea was that Novak Djokovic would chase his tenth title in the Australian Open - instead he was deported.
The reason: he was not vaccinated against the coronavirus.
At least now the 35-year-old is in place - and he got off to a good start in his pursuit of further success in Melbourne.
Despite a wrapped thigh - problem with a muscle - the meeting with Spaniard Roberto Carballes Baena was over after two hours and two minutes.
“Thank you for staying so late”
The victory numbers: 6–3, 6–4, 6–0.
Afterwards, he was clear that he enjoyed being back at Rod Laver Arena.
He was especially grateful that the audience received him with warm hearts after last year's tough atmosphere.
- Thank you all for staying here so late.
Thank you for welcoming me so nicely, it was only something I could dream of, he says in the victory interview on Discovery+'s television broadcast.
- I am happy to be back in Australia, on this track where I have had so much success.
For Djokovic, the winner between French Enzo Couacaud and Hugo Dellien from Bolivia awaits in the second round.