MELBOURNE, Jan 13: Novak Djokovic’s first match with former rival Andy Murray as his coach did not start all that well, even against a 19-year-old making his Grand Slam debut.
Still, after dropping his opening set at the 2025 Australian Open on Monday night to Nishesh Basavareddy, an American who left Stanford University and turned pro last month, Djokovic eventually asserted himself for a 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 victory to begin his bid for an 11th championship at Melbourne Park and a record 25th major title overall.
“I’m obviously thrilled to have him in my corner,” Djokovic said about Murray. “I must say, it was a little bit of a strange experience to have him at courtside in my box. We played for over 20 years against each other at the highest level. Great to have him on the same side of the net. He gave me some great advice mid-match.”
Before heading out into Rod Laver Arena, Djokovic and Murray chatted in the gym. They wrapped up the conversation with a fist bump, before Djokovic hopped on the treadmill to warm up.
During the match, apart from an extended conversation before the fourth set, there was only the occasional interaction between player and coach – a pairing between 37-year-olds born a week apart, and opponents from the age of 12, including in a series of Slam finals as pros. Murray retired at the Paris Olympics in August; Djokovic proposed teaming up in November.
ALCARAZ DOMINATES SHEVCHENKO
Carlos Alcaraz, the 2022 US Open champion, began his Australian Open 2025 campaign with an emphatic 6-1, 7-5, 6-1 victory over Alexander Shevchenko at the Rod Laver Arena on Monday.
Having already captured titles at the US Open, French Open and Wimbledon, Alcaraz’s arrival in Australia comes with high stakes. Victory at the Australian Open would not only cement his status among the sport’s greats but also establish him as the youngest player ever to achieve the career Grand Slam – a feat even legends like Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic had to wait years to accomplish.
Facing Alexander Shevchenko in the opening round, Alcaraz wasted no time setting the tone.
The Spaniard’s blend of raw power, dazzling agility, and tactical acumen overwhelmed his Russian opponent from the start. (Agencies)
