ATP
Brisbane
Novak Djokovic continued his fine start to the week at the Brisbane International presented by Evie on Tuesday evening, when the top-seeded Serbian eased past home favourite Rinky Hijikata in his first tour-level singles match since October.
A day after beginning his 2025 ATP Tour season with a doubles victory alongside Nick Kyrgios at the ATP 250, Djokovic earned a comfortable 6-3, 6-3 singles triumph against Hijikata.
The 37-year-old struck the ball cleanly from the baseline throughout and delivered a typically precise serving display en route to a 75-minute win inside Pat Rafter Arena.
“I always expect myself to do well on the court. Obviously, a win is a win,” said Djokovic in his on-court interview.
“To start off the new season with a win is very important. I think Hijikata deserves a great round of applause for his performance tonight, he was really good. He made me work, definitely, for the win tonight.”
Djokovic won 81 per cent (25/31) of points behind his first serve against Hijikata, who battled admirably but ultimately lacked the weapons to penetrate his opponent’s rock-solid defence.
Djokovic also did not face a break point, according to Infosys ATP Stats, as he wrapped victory with plenty of time to spare to join his family for New Year’s Eve celebrations.
“We will definitely celebrate the new year, we have some plans. My family is here,” said Djokovic, whose match point celebration included mimicking playing a violin, perhaps a reference to the instrument his daughter Tara is learning.
“My kids are excited to go past their bedtime. We are going to watch I guess one of many fireworks displays tonight here in Brisbane.”
Awaiting Djokovic in the second round in Brisbane is Gael Monfils, against whom he holds a 19-0 ATP Head2Head record.
