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”
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.