Former world No 1 Mats Wilander praises Novak Djokovic's performance in his first round match against Nishesh Basavareddy at the 2020 Australian Open, assessing that the Serbian has a strong chance to win the tournament in 2025. Despite a rocky start, Djokovic was able to overcome the American wildcard in four sets, with Wilander noting how he was taken aback by the underdog's skills on the court. With this victory, Djokovic joins Roger Federer as the only two men in history to have played the most Grand Slam matches. As Djokovic continues his quest for an 11th Australian Open title, he looks to join a select group of four men who have won three hard-court majors in a row, including Federer.
Novak Djokovic Dominates First Round of Australian Open, Eyes Record-Breaking Win
Seven-time Australian Open champion Novak Djokovic made a triumphant return to the Melbourne Park courts with a four-set victory over American wildcard Nishesh Basavareddy in the first round. The match marked Djokovic's 100th Grand Slam victory on hard courts, solidifying his dominance on the surface.
Despite a shaky start that saw Basavareddy claim the opening set, Djokovic rallied back with his signature relentless play and superb court coverage. The Serbian overcame the American's powerful serve and aggressive groundstrokes to secure the victory in four sets (6-7, 6-2, 6-3, 7-5).
Former world No. 1 Mats Wilander was impressed by Djokovic's performance, noting his strong serve and strategic play. "He was rock solid," said Wilander. "He has a strong chance to win the tournament."
Djokovic's first-round win also marked a historic milestone. He joined Roger Federer as the only two men in history to have played the most Grand Slam matches (241). This victory extends Djokovic's record-breaking streak of consecutive Grand Slam match wins on hard courts to 25.
Djokovic's Quest for Australian Open Title
With his first-round victory, Djokovic sets his sights on an 11th Australian Open title. A victory in Melbourne would not only break Federer's record for most Australian Open titles but also put him in an elite group of four men who have won three consecutive hard-court Grand Slams.
FAQs
1. Who did Djokovic defeat in the first round of the Australian Open? Answer: Nishesh Basavareddy
2. What was the score of the match? Answer: 6-7, 6-2, 6-3, 7-5
3. What was Wilander's assessment of Djokovic's performance? Answer: "He was rock solid" with a "strong chance to win the tournament."
4. What is Djokovic's current Grand Slam match win streak on hard courts? Answer: 25
5. How many Australian Open titles does Djokovic have? Answer: 9 (including 2023)
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