Novak Djokovic has won a record nine Australian Open men’s singles titles (Picture: Getty)
Novak Djokovic has defeated Roberto Carballes Baena 6-3 6-3 6-0 to begin his quest for a record-extending 10th Australian Open title.
Djokovic only broke his opponent twice in the opening two sets but absolutely steamrolled past the Spaniard in the third and will next face France’s world No.191 Enzo Couacaud or Bolivia’s world No.131 Hugo Dellien in the second round.
The 21-time major champion, bidding to equal Rafael Nadal on 22 Grand Slam singles trophies at Melbourne Park, recorded nine aces and just one double fault.
There had been concerns over the 35-year-old’s fitness heading into the tournament with Djokovic struggling with a hamstring issue, and despite him dealing with some discomfort in the second set, he was able to battle through it and secure victory on the Rod Laver Arena.
More to follow…
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He’s attempting to lift his 22nd major trophy!
