Match report
Djokovic gets inspired by Murray and shines at Australian Open
The 10-time champion defeats wild card Basaba Reddy in four sets.
January 13, 2025
Cameron Spencer/Getty
Novak Djokovic defeats Nishesh Basavareddy at the 2025 Australian Open.
Written by Jerome Combe
A new era for Novak Djokovic began on Monday at the Australian Open as coach Andy Murray watched on.
The record 10-time champion defeated American wildcard Nishesh Basavareddy 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 to qualify for the second round in Melbourne for the 18th consecutive year did. Although it was unconvincing at times, Djokovic regularly called for extra bursts of energy from a energized Murray in the coaching box before clinching victory in 2 hours and 58 minutes.
“It’s important for us right now. I’m happy to have him in my corner,” Djokovic said of Murray. “It was a bit of a strange experience having him courtside in my box…We’ve been playing against each other for over 20 years, but it’s nice to have him on the same side of the net.
“He gave me great advice during the games. It’s really good to have the opportunity to exchange some feedback and have the coaches tell me what they’re seeing. It was a great experience (with Murray). So I hope it doesn’t stop here.”
Novak from Melbourne. A winning machine.
The 10-time champion has booked his spot in the 18th consecutive AO second round 🤯#AO2025 pic.twitter.com/L1kFt9glJn
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 13, 2025
Basavalady seemed unfazed by the magnitude of what happened inside Rod Laver Arena, moving freely to outdo the former world No. 1 for much of the long match. However, the physical strain of going toe-to-toe with Djokovic began to take its toll, and Djokovic, ranked 107th in the PIF ATP rankings, called for a medical timeout after losing the second set.
As the match progressed, Murray became increasingly involved, often rising from his seat, causing Djokovic’s furious rant. The 37-year-old Serbian finally raised his serve level in the third and fourth sets, clinically converting all three break points he won to book his first major of the year, according to Infosys ATP Stats. Ta.
“He was the better player for a set and a half. He deserved all the applause he got,” Djokovic said of Basavalady, who competed in the PIF’s Next Generation ATP Finals in December. . “It was a great performance. This type of matchup is always difficult (and) dangerous. He has nothing to lose in his first Grand Slam match.
“He surprised me with every shot until the end, so I wish him all the best in the future.”
Seventh-seeded Djokovic will next look to win a record-extending 25th and 100th Grand Slam title, defeating earlier qualifier Pavel Kotov 6-1, 6-1, 7-5. He continues his match against Jaime Faria.
