Russian ace Daniil Medvedev is set to become world no. 2 in Tennis rankings on Monday after the ATP confirmed this disrupter is about to make a big move.&nbsp;

IN PICS|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/djokovic-and-family-celebrate-in-belgrade-as-serb-sets-all-time-record-as-world-no-1-369081" hreflang="en">Djokovic and family celebrate in Belgrade as Serb sets all-time record as world No. 1</a>

He will become the first man other than Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray to be in the Top 2 since 2005. However, the Russian praised Serb ace Novak Djokovic, who eclipsed Roger Federer's record on March 8 when he moved past the Swiss to hold the top ranking for the 311th week.

"First of all, it's an unbelievable achievement," Medvedev said after reaching the semi-finals of the ATP 250 event in Marseille on Friday.

"I think in the world of tennis we talk about Grand Slams more than anything else. But this is also a small competition, I'm sure he's really happy about it. The way he's played, he's definitely capable of catching 400 weeks.

"We're going to try to not let him do this. I didn't manage to do anything in the Australian Open final, but that is what sport is about. Nobody is going to give him an easy pass, he's going to have to earn it."

The Russian player also praised Roger Federer, who returned to court this week after 13 months due to double knee surgeries and still was able to win the first match on return.&nbsp;

"I would definitely like to play Roger. He's one of the three best in tennis history, it's always great playing him," Medvedev said, adding "every time you step out on the court against the Big Three, it's a special feeling".

Russian ace Daniil Medvedev is set to become world no. 2 in Tennis rankings on Monday after the ATP confirmed this disrupter is about to make a big move. IN PICS| Djokovic and family celebrate in Belgrade as Serb sets all-time record as world No.

Russian ace Daniil Medvedev is set to become world no. 2 in Tennis rankings on Monday after the ATP confirmed this disrupter is about to make a big move. IN PICS| Djokovic and family celebrate in Belgrade as Serb sets all-time record as world No. 1 He will become the first man other than Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray to be in the Top 2 since 2005. However, the Russian praised Serb ace Novak Djokovic, who eclipsed Roger Federer's record on March 8 when he moved past the Swiss to hold the top ranking for the 311th week. "First of all, it's an unbelievable achievement," Medvedev said after reaching the semi-finals of the ATP 250 event in Marseille on Friday. "I think in the world of tennis we talk about Grand Slams more than anything else. But this is also a small competition, I'm sure he's really happy about it. The way he's played, he's definitely capable of catching 400 weeks. "We're going to try to not let him do this. I didn't manage to do anything in the Australian Open final, but that is what sport is about. Nobody is going to give him an easy pass, he's going to have to earn it." The Russian player also praised Roger Federer, who returned to court this week after 13 months due to double knee surgeries and still was able to win the first match on return. "I would definitely like to play Roger. He's one of the three best in tennis history, it's always great playing him," Medvedev said, adding "every time you step out on the court against the Big Three, it's a special feeling".

'Unbelievable achievement': Daniil Medvedev lauds Novak Djokovic on world no. 1 record

Djokovic and family celebrate in Belgrade as Serb sets all-time record as world No. 1

Novak Djokovic is all set to set a new landmark in the world of tennis as world number one with the&nbsp;Serbian ace&nbsp;ready to overtake Roger Federer. Djokovic, on Monday, will hold his position as world number one for a staggering 311 weeks – a new milestone in a trophy-laden career.&nbsp;

Djokovic also has Federer and Nadal's record of winning 20 Grand Slam titles in sight after recently lifting his 18th&nbsp;major. The 33-year-old has time on his side with Federer and Nadal already fighting&nbsp;injury-plagued bodies.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Now that I've become the historic No.1, I'm relieved," said Djokovic after sweeping to a ninth Australian Open last month which guaranteed his extended stay at the top.&nbsp;

"Now, I'm going to be able to focus mainly on the Grand Slams."&nbsp;

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Djokovic regained the top rankings from Spanish maestro Nadal in February 2020 and finished the year-end as number one for the sixth time –&nbsp;equalling&nbsp;the record set by legendary Pete Sampras.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Djokovic made his entry to the top 100 in July 2005, weeks after Nadal lifted his first Roland Garros. The Serb was top 50 in June 2006 and top 20 in October 2006 while racing into top 10 by March 2007. He became the world number one at just 24 in July 2011 – the day after winning his first Wimbledon.&nbsp;

Djokovic also became the first man to&nbsp;shatter&nbsp;the $100 million prize money barrier, ending his career with more Slams than Federer and Nadal.&nbsp;Notably, Djokovic has won more Australian Opens than Federer and Nadal.&nbsp;His Wimbledon total stands at five to Federer's eight and Nadal's two.&nbsp;

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"Obviously I have in my mind to win more Grand Slam titles and to break records.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Until I retire from the tour, I will be devoting most of my attention and energy to winning the other major titles," Djokovic said.&nbsp;

Novak Djokovic is all set to set a new landmark in the world of tennis as world number one with the Serbian ace ready to overtake Roger Federer. Djokovic, on Monday, will hold his position as world number one for a staggering 311 weeks – a new milestone in a trophy-laden career.

Novak Djokovic is all set to set a new landmark in the world of tennis as world number one with the Serbian ace ready to overtake Roger Federer. Djokovic, on Monday, will hold his position as world number one for a staggering 311 weeks – a new milestone in a trophy-laden career. Djokovic also has Federer and Nadal's record of winning 20 Grand Slam titles in sight after recently lifting his 18th major. The 33-year-old has time on his side with Federer and Nadal already fighting injury-plagued bodies. "Now that I've become the historic No.1, I'm relieved," said Djokovic after sweeping to a ninth Australian Open last month which guaranteed his extended stay at the top. "Now, I'm going to be able to focus mainly on the Grand Slams." ALSO READ: No Covid vaccine mandate for NBA players: commissioner Djokovic regained the top rankings from Spanish maestro Nadal in February 2020 and finished the year-end as number one for the sixth time – equalling the record set by legendary Pete Sampras. Djokovic made his entry to the top 100 in July 2005, weeks after Nadal lifted his first Roland Garros. The Serb was top 50 in June 2006 and top 20 in October 2006 while racing into top 10 by March 2007. He became the world number one at just 24 in July 2011 – the day after winning his first Wimbledon. Djokovic also became the first man to shatter the $100 million prize money barrier, ending his career with more Slams than Federer and Nadal. Notably, Djokovic has won more Australian Opens than Federer and Nadal. His Wimbledon total stands at five to Federer's eight and Nadal's two. ALSO READ: Serb ace Novak Djokovic set to return on court at Miami Open "Obviously I have in my mind to win more Grand Slam titles and to break records. "Until I retire from the tour, I will be devoting most of my attention and energy to winning the other major titles," Djokovic said.

Novak Djokovic set to shatter Roger Federer's world number one record

Serbian ace Novak Djokovic has confirmed that he will be returning to court at this month's Miami Open having recuperated from a muscle tear suffered during his Australian Open campaign.

The world number one sustained his injury during his third-round match in the Australian Open at Melbourne Park. However, the Serb returned and went on to win his record-extending ninth Australian Open title and his 18th Grand Slam.

On Monday, Novak will surpass Roger Federer's all-time record for most weeks as ATP world number one after being on top for 311th week.&nbsp;

According to his schedule posted on his website, Novak entered for the ATP Masters 1000 event on the hardcourts in Miami from March 22-April 4. It is the first of three events he will play in before heading to Europe for the claycourt swing ahead of the French Open in end of May.

Djokovic will then head to Monaco for the Monte-Carlo Masters, running from April 11-18, before returning home to Belgrade for the ATP 250 Serbia Open.

The Tour is returning to Belgrade for the first time since 2012, and the Serbia Open will be held at Djokovic's tennis centre from April 19-25.

Serbian ace Novak Djokovic has confirmed that he will be returning to court at this month's Miami Open having recuperated from a muscle tear suffered during his Australian Open campaign.

Serbian ace Novak Djokovic has confirmed that he will be returning to court at this month's Miami Open having recuperated from a muscle tear suffered during his Australian Open campaign. The world number one sustained his injury during his third-round match in the Australian Open at Melbourne Park. However, the Serb returned and went on to win his record-extending ninth Australian Open title and his 18th Grand Slam. On Monday, Novak will surpass Roger Federer's all-time record for most weeks as ATP world number one after being on top for 311th week. According to his schedule posted on his website, Novak entered for the ATP Masters 1000 event on the hardcourts in Miami from March 22-April 4. It is the first of three events he will play in before heading to Europe for the claycourt swing ahead of the French Open in end of May. Djokovic will then head to Monaco for the Monte-Carlo Masters, running from April 11-18, before returning home to Belgrade for the ATP 250 Serbia Open. The Tour is returning to Belgrade for the first time since 2012, and the Serbia Open will be held at Djokovic's tennis centre from April 19-25.

Serb ace Novak Djokovic set to return on court at Miami Open

Novak Djokovic said his ninth Australian Open title came after one of the toughest tournaments of his career, with a muscle-tear injury that is still "not healed" and attacks from the media and public.

Despite the challenges, the world number one snuffed out the threat from in-form Russian Daniil Medvedev 7-5, 6-2, 6-2 to reinforce his status as the king of Melbourne Park and collect his 18th Grand Slam crown.

But there were numerous hurdles to jump, not least having to quarantine for 14 days and the negative reaction to a letter he wrote to Tennis Australia pre-tournament which was interpreted as a "petulant and selfish" list of demands.

"I think emotionally it was one of the hardest tournaments that I've ever had, to be honest," the Serbian top seed told Australia's Channel Nine on Sunday.

"We had quarantine and a lot of things happening in the media, then the letter that I wrote as ideas and recommendations that I got for players was misinterpreted as a list of demands. Then the next thing I was persona non grata here in this country.

"So it was tough dealing with all of this and then getting injured in the third round," he added of the abdominal tear that almost forced him to pull out.

"It was a rollercoaster ride... I think it makes it even sweeter for me and a lot of positives from this tournament without a doubt."

His coach Goran Ivanisevic said the criticisms Djokovic had to deal were unfair.

"Actually he needed this victory so badly. There is somebody upstairs who see all this unfairness with a lot of media and people they doing to him," he said.

"He tried to help the players," he added of the contentious letter. "Again, it's only him. It's his fault, like everybody else attacking him. Nobody else to attack, so let's attack Novak."&nbsp;

<h2>- 'Great ability to heal' -</h2>

Djokovic sustained his injury during his third-round clash against Taylor Fritz.

After refusing to reveal the nature of the injury during the tournament, he said on Sunday it was an abdominal muscle tear.

"It's a muscle tear... I went for an MRI and it showed a tear," he said. "I understand people question whether there was a tear -- but there is. For me it was obviously a huge obstacle and challenge.

"I guess we're all different. I have maybe a great ability to heal. I don't know. I just manage somehow with pills and painkillers and stuff."

The nine-time Australian Open champion revealed he spent 10 out of 14 waking hours on the physio's table at one stage for treatment.

"It's not healed up. I'm going to go for another MRI tomorrow before I travel. I'm definitely going to take some time off. I don't know how long it's going to take," he said.

"But you know my whole energy and focus was here in Australia. If there was a tournament where I want to risk any more damage, and try my hardest to battle, it's here, it's a Grand Slam."

Djokovic's win over Medvedev strengthened his hold on world number one, where he will mark his 311th week when the new rankings come out on Monday, surpassing Federer's record of 310.

"I managed to achieve this historic number one. It seems unreal but of course I am very, very happy and proud of that," he said, adding that he has not committed to any tournaments so far after Australia.

"My focus now is the Slams, that's where I want to shine. I know age is just a number but we have to also see things realistically, I am not 22 any more.

"So I'm going to have to deal with the schedule and the calendar in a different way so I peak at the right time at the Slams."

Novak Djokovic said his ninth Australian Open title came after one of the toughest tournaments of his career, with a muscle-tear injury that is still "not healed" and attacks from the media and public.

Novak Djokovic said his ninth Australian Open title came after one of the toughest tournaments of his career, with a muscle-tear injury that is still "not healed" and attacks from the media and public. Despite the challenges, the world number one snuffed out the threat from in-form Russian Daniil Medvedev 7-5, 6-2, 6-2 to reinforce his status as the king of Melbourne Park and collect his 18th Grand Slam crown. But there were numerous hurdles to jump, not least having to quarantine for 14 days and the negative reaction to a letter he wrote to Tennis Australia pre-tournament which was interpreted as a "petulant and selfish" list of demands. "I think emotionally it was one of the hardest tournaments that I've ever had, to be honest," the Serbian top seed told Australia's Channel Nine on Sunday. "We had quarantine and a lot of things happening in the media, then the letter that I wrote as ideas and recommendations that I got for players was misinterpreted as a list of demands. Then the next thing I was persona non grata here in this country. "So it was tough dealing with all of this and then getting injured in the third round," he added of the abdominal tear that almost forced him to pull out. "It was a rollercoaster ride... I think it makes it even sweeter for me and a lot of positives from this tournament without a doubt." His coach Goran Ivanisevic said the criticisms Djokovic had to deal were unfair. "Actually he needed this victory so badly. There is somebody upstairs who see all this unfairness with a lot of media and people they doing to him," he said. "He tried to help the players," he added of the contentious letter. "Again, it's only him. It's his fault, like everybody else attacking him. Nobody else to attack, so let's attack Novak." - 'Great ability to heal' - Djokovic sustained his injury during his third-round clash against Taylor Fritz. After refusing to reveal the nature of the injury during the tournament, he said on Sunday it was an abdominal muscle tear. "It's a muscle tear... I went for an MRI and it showed a tear," he said. "I understand people question whether there was a tear -- but there is. For me it was obviously a huge obstacle and challenge. "I guess we're all different. I have maybe a great ability to heal. I don't know. I just manage somehow with pills and painkillers and stuff." The nine-time Australian Open champion revealed he spent 10 out of 14 waking hours on the physio's table at one stage for treatment. "It's not healed up. I'm going to go for another MRI tomorrow before I travel. I'm definitely going to take some time off. I don't know how long it's going to take," he said. "But you know my whole energy and focus was here in Australia. If there was a tournament where I want to risk any more damage, and try my hardest to battle, it's here, it's a Grand Slam." Djokovic's win over Medvedev strengthened his hold on world number one, where he will mark his 311th week when the new rankings come out on Monday, surpassing Federer's record of 310. "I managed to achieve this historic number one. It seems unreal but of course I am very, very happy and proud of that," he said, adding that he has not committed to any tournaments so far after Australia. "My focus now is the Slams, that's where I want to shine. I know age is just a number but we have to also see things realistically, I am not 22 any more. "So I'm going to have to deal with the schedule and the calendar in a different way so I peak at the right time at the Slams."

Djokovic says 'rollercoaster' Australian Open one of toughest tournaments

Novak&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;extended his own record Australian Open wins to nine with a 7-5, 6-2, 6-2 victory over Daniil Medvedev in the Australian Open final on Sunday.

Here, AFP Sport recalls&nbsp;Djokovic's incredible run of success and the records he has set on the way to becoming the undoubted king of Melbourne Park:&nbsp;

<h2>- First Serb: 2008 -&nbsp;</h2>

Becomes first Serb to win a Grand Slam at the age of 20 in Melbourne, after bursting into the big time with an emphatic straight-sets victory in the semi-finals over world number one Roger Federer, who had been unbeaten at the tournament for 16 matches.

In the final he beat Frenchman Jo-Wilfried Tsonga 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 7-6 (7/2).

"Every player dreams of winning a Grand Slam. I am still not fully aware of what I have achieved these past two weeks," he said.

<h2>- Three-year wait ends: 2011 -</h2>

It was three long years before&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;secured a second major triumph, and he put his success down to a&nbsp;gluten-free diet.

It heralded a golden year where he won three of the four Grand Slam titles.

He lost only one set the entire fortnight including defeating defending champion Federer again in the semi-finals, before overpowering Andy Murray 6-4, 6-2, 6-3 in the championship decider.

Djokovic&nbsp;said he decided to change his back room team and behaviour, as well as his diet, after a disappointing 2010.&nbsp;

"Things off court were not working for me, you know.&nbsp;

"I had to try to find the best possible solution and try to get back on the right track. That's what I did."

<h2>- The longest final: 2012 -</h2>

Djokovic's first successful Grand Slam title defence involved feats of endurance rarely witnessed before on a tennis court.

After a five-set battle against Murray in the semi-final, he then had to fight for almost six hours in a war of attrition against Rafael Nadal to win the title.

It was the longest Grand Slam singles final in the Open era and ended at 1:37 am on Monday after the pair walked on court at 7:30 pm Sunday.

Djokovic&nbsp;ripped off his shirt and roared in celebration at the end of the epic match which he won 5-7, 6-4, 6-2, 6-7 (5/7), 7-5 in 5hr 53min.

"Physically it was the toughest match I ever played," said an exhausted Nadal, after addressing the crowd with: "Good morning!"&nbsp;

<h2>- Title hat-trick: 2013 -</h2>

Djokovic&nbsp;became the first man in the Open era to win three Australian titles in a row after overpowering Murray 6-7 (2/7), 7-6 (7/3), 6-3, 6-2.

The Serb was also stretched all the way by Stan Wawrinka in the fourth round before prevailing 1-6, 7-5, 6-4, 6-7(5), 12-10.&nbsp;

"It's definitely my favourite Grand Slam, my most successful Grand Slam. I love this court," said&nbsp;Djokovic.

<h2>- Revenge over Wawrinka: 2015 -</h2>

Djokovic&nbsp;was upset in the 2014 quarter-finals by Wawrinka, the eventual champion, but was back to his punishing best a year later.

After exacting revenge on the Swiss in the semi-final he again rolled over Murray for the title, inflicting a humiliating 6-0 bagel on the Scot in the final set to tie Andre Agassi on the all-time list with eight Grand Slam titles.

His 7-6 (7/5), 6-7(4/7), 6-3, 6-0 victory was his first as a father after wife Jelena had given birth to Stefan three months earlier.

"I think it has deeper meaning, more intrinsic value now to my life because I'm a father and a husband," said&nbsp;Djokovic.

<h2>- 'Djokovic&nbsp;Slam': 2016 -</h2>

The records kept tumbling as he clinched a sixth Melbourne crown to equal Roy Emerson's pre-Open era record and win a third consecutive major title after Wimbledon and the US Open in 2015.

He would go on to complete the "Djokovic&nbsp;Slam" at the French Open to hold all four majors at the same time.

He defeated Murray for a fourth time in the championship match 6-1, 7-5, 7-6 (7/3).

"It's an incredible feeling, especially because of the fact that I managed to make history tonight and equal Roy Emerson's record of six Australian Opens," he said after winning his 11th Grand Slam crown to match Rod Laver and Bjorn Borg on the all-time list.&nbsp;

<h2>- Sampras eclipsed: 2019 -</h2>

After two years battling injury, including undergoing elbow surgery, he swatted aside the challenge of old rival Nadal in the final 6-3, 6-2, 6-3 to claim a record seventh Australian Open and 15th Grand Slam title to go ahead of his childhood idol, American great Pete Sampras.

"It was definitely a sign of destiny to start playing tennis, to aspire to be as good as Pete,"&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;said. "To surpass him with Grand Slam titles, I'm speechless."

<h2>- Great eight: 2020 -</h2>

Djokovic&nbsp;captured his eighth title and earned his 900th tour-level match win on the way.&nbsp;

Federer was dispatched in straight sets in the semi-final but 26-year-old Dominic Thiem gave&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;his hardest final battle since the Nadal epic in 2012.

Djokovic&nbsp;eventually fought back from two sets to one down to secure his 17th major 6-4, 4-6, 2-6, 6-3, 6-4.

"Obviously at this stage of my career, Grand Slams are the ones I value the most. They are the ones I prioritise," he said.&nbsp;

<h2>- Stomach for the fight: 2021 -</h2>

Djokovic&nbsp;looked on his way out when he could barely run because of an abdominal injury in the third round against Taylor Fritz, but somehow survived in five sets.

He was unable to train between matches, but grew fitter and stronger with every passing round.

As his injury healed he recorded four-set wins against Milos Raonic and Alexander Zverev before racing past Russian qualifier Aslan Karatsev in the semi-final.

Another Russian awaited in the championship decider, but world number four Daniil Medvedev went the way of the Serb's eight previous final opponents as it took a rampant&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;just 1hr 53 min to win 7-5, 6-2, 6-2 and extend his perfect record in finals at Melbourne Park.&nbsp;

Novak Djokovic extended his own record Australian Open wins to nine with a 7-5, 6-2, 6-2 victory over Daniil Medvedev in the Australian Open final on Sunday. Here, AFP Sport recalls Djokovic's incredible run of success and the records he has set on the way to becoming the undoubted king of Melbourne Park: - First Serb: 2008 - Becomes first Serb to win a Grand Slam at the age of 20 in Melbourne, after bursting into the big time with an emphatic straight-sets victory in the semi-finals over world number one Roger Federer, who had been unbeaten at the tournament for 16 matches.

Novak Djokovic extended his own record Australian Open wins to nine with a 7-5, 6-2, 6-2 victory over Daniil Medvedev in the Australian Open final on Sunday. Here, AFP Sport recalls Djokovic's incredible run of success and the records he has set on the way to becoming the undoubted king of Melbourne Park: - First Serb: 2008 - Becomes first Serb to win a Grand Slam at the age of 20 in Melbourne, after bursting into the big time with an emphatic straight-sets victory in the semi-finals over world number one Roger Federer, who had been unbeaten at the tournament for 16 matches. In the final he beat Frenchman Jo-Wilfried Tsonga 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 7-6 (7/2). "Every player dreams of winning a Grand Slam. I am still not fully aware of what I have achieved these past two weeks," he said. - Three-year wait ends: 2011 - It was three long years before Djokovic secured a second major triumph, and he put his success down to a gluten-free diet. It heralded a golden year where he won three of the four Grand Slam titles. He lost only one set the entire fortnight including defeating defending champion Federer again in the semi-finals, before overpowering Andy Murray 6-4, 6-2, 6-3 in the championship decider. Djokovic said he decided to change his back room team and behaviour, as well as his diet, after a disappointing 2010. "Things off court were not working for me, you know. "I had to try to find the best possible solution and try to get back on the right track. That's what I did." - The longest final: 2012 - Djokovic's first successful Grand Slam title defence involved feats of endurance rarely witnessed before on a tennis court. After a five-set battle against Murray in the semi-final, he then had to fight for almost six hours in a war of attrition against Rafael Nadal to win the title. It was the longest Grand Slam singles final in the Open era and ended at 1:37 am on Monday after the pair walked on court at 7:30 pm Sunday. Djokovic ripped off his shirt and roared in celebration at the end of the epic match which he won 5-7, 6-4, 6-2, 6-7 (5/7), 7-5 in 5hr 53min. "Physically it was the toughest match I ever played," said an exhausted Nadal, after addressing the crowd with: "Good morning!" - Title hat-trick: 2013 - Djokovic became the first man in the Open era to win three Australian titles in a row after overpowering Murray 6-7 (2/7), 7-6 (7/3), 6-3, 6-2. The Serb was also stretched all the way by Stan Wawrinka in the fourth round before prevailing 1-6, 7-5, 6-4, 6-7(5), 12-10. "It's definitely my favourite Grand Slam, my most successful Grand Slam. I love this court," said Djokovic. - Revenge over Wawrinka: 2015 - Djokovic was upset in the 2014 quarter-finals by Wawrinka, the eventual champion, but was back to his punishing best a year later. After exacting revenge on the Swiss in the semi-final he again rolled over Murray for the title, inflicting a humiliating 6-0 bagel on the Scot in the final set to tie Andre Agassi on the all-time list with eight Grand Slam titles. His 7-6 (7/5), 6-7(4/7), 6-3, 6-0 victory was his first as a father after wife Jelena had given birth to Stefan three months earlier. "I think it has deeper meaning, more intrinsic value now to my life because I'm a father and a husband," said Djokovic. - 'Djokovic Slam': 2016 - The records kept tumbling as he clinched a sixth Melbourne crown to equal Roy Emerson's pre-Open era record and win a third consecutive major title after Wimbledon and the US Open in 2015. He would go on to complete the "Djokovic Slam" at the French Open to hold all four majors at the same time. He defeated Murray for a fourth time in the championship match 6-1, 7-5, 7-6 (7/3). "It's an incredible feeling, especially because of the fact that I managed to make history tonight and equal Roy Emerson's record of six Australian Opens," he said after winning his 11th Grand Slam crown to match Rod Laver and Bjorn Borg on the all-time list. - Sampras eclipsed: 2019 - After two years battling injury, including undergoing elbow surgery, he swatted aside the challenge of old rival Nadal in the final 6-3, 6-2, 6-3 to claim a record seventh Australian Open and 15th Grand Slam title to go ahead of his childhood idol, American great Pete Sampras. "It was definitely a sign of destiny to start playing tennis, to aspire to be as good as Pete," Djokovic said. "To surpass him with Grand Slam titles, I'm speechless." - Great eight: 2020 - Djokovic captured his eighth title and earned his 900th tour-level match win on the way. Federer was dispatched in straight sets in the semi-final but 26-year-old Dominic Thiem gave Djokovic his hardest final battle since the Nadal epic in 2012. Djokovic eventually fought back from two sets to one down to secure his 17th major 6-4, 4-6, 2-6, 6-3, 6-4. "Obviously at this stage of my career, Grand Slams are the ones I value the most. They are the ones I prioritise," he said. - Stomach for the fight: 2021 - Djokovic looked on his way out when he could barely run because of an abdominal injury in the third round against Taylor Fritz, but somehow survived in five sets. He was unable to train between matches, but grew fitter and stronger with every passing round. As his injury healed he recorded four-set wins against Milos Raonic and Alexander Zverev before racing past Russian qualifier Aslan Karatsev in the semi-final. Another Russian awaited in the championship decider, but world number four Daniil Medvedev went the way of the Serb's eight previous final opponents as it took a rampant Djokovic just 1hr 53 min to win 7-5, 6-2, 6-2 and extend his perfect record in finals at Melbourne Park.

On cloud nine: Djokovic's dominance at Australian Open

World number one Novak Djokovic on Sunday scripted history as he won the record-extending ninth Australian Open title after defeating Russia's Daniil Medvedev 7-5, 6-2, 6-2 at Melbourne Park.&nbsp;Djokovic, with the Australian Open 2021 win, has now been victorious in 18 Grand Slam events – just two behind the iconic duo of Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.&nbsp;

Djokovic started the summit clash with an ace before winning the first set of the Australian Open final 7-5 against Medvedev.&nbsp;

Djokovic looked game from the word go but Medvedev made life tough for the Serb as he served well while trying to disrupt Djokovic's game-plan with some terrific movement. However, it was Djokovic's class that prevailed as&nbsp;he turned the heat from the second set onwards.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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𝑀𝒶𝒿𝑒𝓈𝓉𝒾𝒸 𝒾𝓃 𝑀𝑒𝓁𝒷𝑜𝓊𝓇𝓃𝑒 
 
The moment <a href="https://twitter.com/DjokerNole?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DjokerNole</a> claims his 9th <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> title.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2021</a> <a href="https://t.co/2sQVBGF0Wv">pic.twitter.com/2sQVBGF0Wv</a>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1363439195138777090?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dodig-polasek-win-australian-open-mens-doubles-title-365199" hreflang="en">Dodig, Polasek win Australian Open men's doubles title</a>

After winning the first set 7-5, Djokovic upped the ante to bag the second set 6-2 as Medvedev looked like he was losing his intensity.&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;was relentless with his services and used both sides of the court to tire out the Russian. While Medvedev tried to get back into the match, Djokovic kept on picking points with his thumping services.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In the third set, Medvedev was completely dominated by Djokovic as the Serb sensed that the Russian was losing his tempo. Djokovic didn't break a sweat in the final set to win his ninth Australian Open title.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/four-for-osaka-how-naomis-grand-slams-were-won-365037" hreflang="en">Four for Osaka: How Naomi's Grand Slams were won</a>

With the win, Djokovic has now won the Australian Open nine teams with the Serb lifting the coveted title in 2008, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2015, 2016, 2019, 2020&nbsp;and 2021.&nbsp;

Djokovic, in the Australian final 2021, defeated the likes of Jeremy Chardy, Frances Tiafoe, Taylor Fritz, Milos Raonic, Alexander Zverev, Aslan&nbsp;Karatsev&nbsp;and Daniil Medvedev.&nbsp;With the domination against Medvedev, Djokovic has now extended his Grand Slam record to 82-8.&nbsp;&nbsp;

World number one Novak Djokovic on Sunday scripted history as he won the record-extending ninth Australian Open title after defeating Russia's Daniil Medvedev 7-5, 6-2, 6-2 at Melbourne Park.

World number one Novak Djokovic on Sunday scripted history as he won the record-extending ninth Australian Open title after defeating Russia's Daniil Medvedev 7-5, 6-2, 6-2 at Melbourne Park. Djokovic, with the Australian Open 2021 win, has now been victorious in 18 Grand Slam events – just two behind the iconic duo of Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. Djokovic started the summit clash with an ace before winning the first set of the Australian Open final 7-5 against Medvedev. Djokovic looked game from the word go but Medvedev made life tough for the Serb as he served well while trying to disrupt Djokovic's game-plan with some terrific movement. However, it was Djokovic's class that prevailed as he turned the heat from the second set onwards. 𝑀𝒶𝒿𝑒𝓈𝓉𝒾𝒸 𝒾𝓃 𝑀𝑒𝓁𝒷𝑜𝓊𝓇𝓃𝑒 The moment @DjokerNole claims his 9th #AusOpen title.#AO2021 pic.twitter.com/2sQVBGF0Wv — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) February 21, 2021 × ALSO READ: Dodig, Polasek win Australian Open men's doubles title After winning the first set 7-5, Djokovic upped the ante to bag the second set 6-2 as Medvedev looked like he was losing his intensity. Djokovic was relentless with his services and used both sides of the court to tire out the Russian. While Medvedev tried to get back into the match, Djokovic kept on picking points with his thumping services. In the third set, Medvedev was completely dominated by Djokovic as the Serb sensed that the Russian was losing his tempo. Djokovic didn't break a sweat in the final set to win his ninth Australian Open title. ALSO READ: Four for Osaka: How Naomi's Grand Slams were won With the win, Djokovic has now won the Australian Open nine teams with the Serb lifting the coveted title in 2008, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2015, 2016, 2019, 2020 and 2021. Djokovic, in the Australian final 2021, defeated the likes of Jeremy Chardy, Frances Tiafoe, Taylor Fritz, Milos Raonic, Alexander Zverev, Aslan Karatsev and Daniil Medvedev. With the domination against Medvedev, Djokovic has now extended his Grand Slam record to 82-8.

AUS Open Final: Novak Djokovic thumps Daniil Medvedev 7-5, 6-2, 6-2 to win 18th Grand Slam title

World number one Novak Djokovic ended the dream run of Russian qualifier Aslan Karatsev in the Australian Open semi-finals Thursday to maintain his bid for a record-extending ninth title.&nbsp;

The 33-year-old Serb, showing no ill-effects from an abdomen injury sustained in the third round, overwhelmed the 114th-ranked Karatsev 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 to reach his 28th Grand Slam final.

"This is the best I've felt in the entire tournament," said Djokovic, who hit 30 winners and 17 aces.

"I could swing through the ball. No pain. The best match so far."

Djokovic, 34, remains on course for his 18th Grand Slam trophy, nipping at the heels of rivals Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, who are on 20.

In his way will be either fourth seed Daniil Medvedev or Nadal's conqueror Stefanos Tsitispas, the fifth seed, a clash Djokovic said he was eagerly anticipating.

"I'm going to take the popcorn and enjoy it," he said. "I absolutely have zero preference.

"I thought Stefanos did incredibly well to hang in there because Rafa was playing amazing," added Djokovic.

"Medvedev is the guy. He is playing at the highest level the last three months."

Djokovic, who hasn't been practising between matches because of his injury, said he hoped to train before the final.

"Probably more likely (to train) on Saturday," he said. "Recovery is priority right now. I'm feeling the ball well and playing well." &nbsp;

<h2>- Butterfly battle -</h2>

Moving sharper than he has since he was injured while playing Taylor Fritz, Djokovic lifted his intensity in his best performance of the tournament.

Karatsev, however, wasn't disgraced after becoming the first man in the Open era to reach a semi-final on his Grand Slam debut, and just the second qualifier to do so at the Australian Open after Bob Giltinan in 1977.&nbsp;&nbsp;

His magical run included wins over eighth seed Diego Schwartzmann, 20th seed Felix Auger-Aliassime and 18th seed Grigor Dimitrov, but came up short against the ultimate test.&nbsp;

A wary Djokovic had predicted Karatsev would come out aggressively and he proved right with the underdog undaunted in a free-wheeling approach.&nbsp;

Aside from being briefly menaced by a butterfly as he prepared to serve, Djokovic wasn't rattled and his defensive mastery suffocated Karatsev in the eighth game.

He subsequently clinched the first set with an ace and then put the foot down to break to love.

Karatsev wouldn't go away, almost wiping away Djokovic's advantage before the eight-time champion held serve in a see-sawing 10th game and celebrated with gusto.

Despite some service struggles, Djokovic continued was not to be denied to record his first straight-sets victory since an opening-round romp against Jeremy Chardy.

Journeyman Karatsev, who spent a chunk of his youth in Israel, Germany and Spain, and had failed on nine previous occasions to qualify for a Grand Slam tournament, is set to rocket to 42 on the ATP rankings.

World number one Novak Djokovic ended the dream run of Russian qualifier Aslan Karatsev in the Australian Open semi-finals Thursday to maintain his bid for a record-extending ninth title.

World number one Novak Djokovic ended the dream run of Russian qualifier Aslan Karatsev in the Australian Open semi-finals Thursday to maintain his bid for a record-extending ninth title. The 33-year-old Serb, showing no ill-effects from an abdomen injury sustained in the third round, overwhelmed the 114th-ranked Karatsev 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 to reach his 28th Grand Slam final. "This is the best I've felt in the entire tournament," said Djokovic, who hit 30 winners and 17 aces. "I could swing through the ball. No pain. The best match so far." Djokovic, 34, remains on course for his 18th Grand Slam trophy, nipping at the heels of rivals Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, who are on 20. In his way will be either fourth seed Daniil Medvedev or Nadal's conqueror Stefanos Tsitispas, the fifth seed, a clash Djokovic said he was eagerly anticipating. "I'm going to take the popcorn and enjoy it," he said. "I absolutely have zero preference. "I thought Stefanos did incredibly well to hang in there because Rafa was playing amazing," added Djokovic. "Medvedev is the guy. He is playing at the highest level the last three months." Djokovic, who hasn't been practising between matches because of his injury, said he hoped to train before the final. "Probably more likely (to train) on Saturday," he said. "Recovery is priority right now. I'm feeling the ball well and playing well." - Butterfly battle - Moving sharper than he has since he was injured while playing Taylor Fritz, Djokovic lifted his intensity in his best performance of the tournament. Karatsev, however, wasn't disgraced after becoming the first man in the Open era to reach a semi-final on his Grand Slam debut, and just the second qualifier to do so at the Australian Open after Bob Giltinan in 1977. His magical run included wins over eighth seed Diego Schwartzmann, 20th seed Felix Auger-Aliassime and 18th seed Grigor Dimitrov, but came up short against the ultimate test. A wary Djokovic had predicted Karatsev would come out aggressively and he proved right with the underdog undaunted in a free-wheeling approach. Aside from being briefly menaced by a butterfly as he prepared to serve, Djokovic wasn't rattled and his defensive mastery suffocated Karatsev in the eighth game. He subsequently clinched the first set with an ace and then put the foot down to break to love. Karatsev wouldn't go away, almost wiping away Djokovic's advantage before the eight-time champion held serve in a see-sawing 10th game and celebrated with gusto. Despite some service struggles, Djokovic continued was not to be denied to record his first straight-sets victory since an opening-round romp against Jeremy Chardy. Journeyman Karatsev, who spent a chunk of his youth in Israel, Germany and Spain, and had failed on nine previous occasions to qualify for a Grand Slam tournament, is set to rocket to 42 on the ATP rankings.

Peerless Djokovic ends Karatsev dream to reach Australian Open final

Tennis superstar Novak Djokovic on Tuesday claimed that most players on the ATP Tour "don't want" the season to continue if the strict quarantines are required before tournaments as it's not something they are used to.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/muchova-stuns-top-seed-barty-to-make-australian-open-semi-finals-364190" hreflang="en">Muchova stuns top seed Barty to make Australian Open semi-finals</a>

While talking to reporters after defeating Zverev in the quarter-finals of Australian Open, Djokovic said: "What we are seeing is not normal. It's not something we are used to. Top players are the ones that are fittest. It has been proven in the past that that's the case," Djokovic, who has been playing with an abdominal injury suffered in his third-round match against Taylor Fritz, told reporters.

According to the world number one, a spate of injuries amongst top players could be down to the strange preparations.

"Now you have (Matteo) Berrettini, even Rafa (Nadal) coming in with a back injury, myself, Sascha (Zverev), as well, struggled, (Grigor) Dimitrov. I mean, obviously it has something to do with these kind of circumstances that we were in.

"We are hoping that it's temporary. But talking to a lot of players, the majority don't want to go ahead with the season if we have to quarantine before most of the tournaments."

Tennis players have been following strict guidelines since last year's French Open, and US Open. The Serbian, who formed the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA) last year, said the Player Council, which he is no longer a part of, wanted answers from the ATP.

"I spoke to some of the council members, and they are saying they have extensive discussions about that with ATP management," he said. "I'm waiting for answers. I want to understand how our continuation of the season post-Australia is going to look because is definitely not good for players wellbeing."

The 17-time Grand Slam winner Djokovic talked about a permanent solution to this issue and suggested to select one place where all the tournaments are held.&nbsp;

"We have to find away, whether it's something like an NBA bubble, because I heard some players talk about that, and I don't mind to discuss about that kind of idea," he said.

"Select one place and we play all the tournaments on that surface and that place. Three, four weeks in, rest, then back again. Something like that."

Djokovic's opponent Zverev also supported the Serbian as he said: "We can't have a travelling circuit right now."

"What the ATP should do is, maybe having a venue like here and play multiple weeks at one place. At the end of the day in Europe right now we can't have spectators, so what difference does it really make where we play the tournament?"

(Inputs from Reuters)

Tennis superstar Novak Djokovic on Tuesday claimed that most players on the ATP Tour "don't want" the season to continue if the strict quarantines are required before tournaments as it's not something they are used to.

Tennis superstar Novak Djokovic on Tuesday claimed that most players on the ATP Tour "don't want" the season to continue if the strict quarantines are required before tournaments as it's not something they are used to. ALSO READ: Muchova stuns top seed Barty to make Australian Open semi-finals While talking to reporters after defeating Zverev in the quarter-finals of Australian Open, Djokovic said: "What we are seeing is not normal. It's not something we are used to. Top players are the ones that are fittest. It has been proven in the past that that's the case," Djokovic, who has been playing with an abdominal injury suffered in his third-round match against Taylor Fritz, told reporters. According to the world number one, a spate of injuries amongst top players could be down to the strange preparations. "Now you have (Matteo) Berrettini, even Rafa (Nadal) coming in with a back injury, myself, Sascha (Zverev), as well, struggled, (Grigor) Dimitrov. I mean, obviously it has something to do with these kind of circumstances that we were in. "We are hoping that it's temporary. But talking to a lot of players, the majority don't want to go ahead with the season if we have to quarantine before most of the tournaments." Tennis players have been following strict guidelines since last year's French Open, and US Open. The Serbian, who formed the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA) last year, said the Player Council, which he is no longer a part of, wanted answers from the ATP. "I spoke to some of the council members, and they are saying they have extensive discussions about that with ATP management," he said. "I'm waiting for answers. I want to understand how our continuation of the season post-Australia is going to look because is definitely not good for players wellbeing." The 17-time Grand Slam winner Djokovic talked about a permanent solution to this issue and suggested to select one place where all the tournaments are held. "We have to find away, whether it's something like an NBA bubble, because I heard some players talk about that, and I don't mind to discuss about that kind of idea," he said. "Select one place and we play all the tournaments on that surface and that place. Three, four weeks in, rest, then back again. Something like that." Djokovic's opponent Zverev also supported the Serbian as he said: "We can't have a travelling circuit right now." "What the ATP should do is, maybe having a venue like here and play multiple weeks at one place. At the end of the day in Europe right now we can't have spectators, so what difference does it really make where we play the tournament?" (Inputs from Reuters)

'Majority don't want to go ahead with the season if we have to quarantine before most of tournaments': Novak Djokovic

Serbian ace Novak Djokovic smashed his racquet and then knocked out Alexander Zverev from the Australian Open as the defending champion entered the semi-finals of the Grand Slam on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Nursing an abdominal injury, Djokovic produced a patchy performance but credit to his mental strength that he went on to win the match against Zverev by&nbsp;6-7 (6/8), 6-2, 6-4, 7-6 (8/6).&nbsp;

Djokovic is being tipped as hot&nbsp;favourite&nbsp;to reach the final of Australian Open when he locks horns with Russian qualifier Aslan&nbsp;Karatsev, who continued his dream run&nbsp;with a 2-6, 6-4, 6-1, 6-2 win against injured Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov.&nbsp;

The world number ripped his racquet apart after slipping behind in the third set but recovered brilliantly to win the set and was ice-cool on the big&nbsp;points as he drilled an ace to win the decisive tie-breaker.&nbsp;

<img alt="Djokovic" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="172bbed1-ba7f-44db-a330-09c261598931" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_9349YN.jpg" />

"Down to the very last shot it was anybody's match," said the 33-year-old Serb.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

"A lot of nerves out there, a lot of pressure. Emotionally I feel a little bit drained, honestly."&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/williams-osaka-into-semis-as-russian-fairytale-continues-364016" hreflang="en">Williams, Osaka into semis as Russian fairytale continues</a>

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Guess who's in the lead.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/DjokerNole?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DjokerNole</a> <a href="https://t.co/H5684fGi8E">pic.twitter.com/H5684fGi8E</a>
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Djokovic remains on track for a record-extending ninth Australian Open title and 18th&nbsp;Grand Slam trophy as he continues to chase rivals Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal – who both have 20.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Earlier, Williams took a step towards a record-equalling&nbsp;24th Grand Slam title with a 6-3, 6-3 dismantling of second seed Simona Halep, her nemesis in the 2019 Wimbledon final.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/history-making-qualifier-karatsev-reaches-australian-open-semis-364012" hreflang="en">History-making qualifier Karatsev reaches Australian Open semis</a>

Williams, 39, said her level was improving ahead of her meeting with Japan's Osaka, who came out on top in their tempestuous 2018 US Open title match.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Definitely think this is the best match I have played this tournament, for sure," said the 10th seed.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Obviously I had to, going up against the number two in the world, so I knew I had to do better."&nbsp;

(With AFP inputs)&nbsp;

Serbian ace Novak Djokovic smashed his racquet and then knocked out Alexander Zverev from the Australian Open as the defending champion entered the semi-finals of the Grand Slam on Tuesday.

Serbian ace Novak Djokovic smashed his racquet and then knocked out Alexander Zverev from the Australian Open as the defending champion entered the semi-finals of the Grand Slam on Tuesday. Nursing an abdominal injury, Djokovic produced a patchy performance but credit to his mental strength that he went on to win the match against Zverev by 6-7 (6/8), 6-2, 6-4, 7-6 (8/6). Djokovic is being tipped as hot favourite to reach the final of Australian Open when he locks horns with Russian qualifier Aslan Karatsev, who continued his dream run with a 2-6, 6-4, 6-1, 6-2 win against injured Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov. The world number ripped his racquet apart after slipping behind in the third set but recovered brilliantly to win the set and was ice-cool on the big points as he drilled an ace to win the decisive tie-breaker. "Down to the very last shot it was anybody's match," said the 33-year-old Serb. "A lot of nerves out there, a lot of pressure. Emotionally I feel a little bit drained, honestly." ALSO READ: Williams, Osaka into semis as Russian fairytale continues Guess who's in the lead.#AusOpen | @DjokerNole pic.twitter.com/H5684fGi8E — Tennis Channel (@TennisChannel) February 16, 2021 × Djokovic remains on track for a record-extending ninth Australian Open title and 18th Grand Slam trophy as he continues to chase rivals Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal – who both have 20. Earlier, Williams took a step towards a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam title with a 6-3, 6-3 dismantling of second seed Simona Halep, her nemesis in the 2019 Wimbledon final. ALSO READ: History-making qualifier Karatsev reaches Australian Open semis Williams, 39, said her level was improving ahead of her meeting with Japan's Osaka, who came out on top in their tempestuous 2018 US Open title match. "Definitely think this is the best match I have played this tournament, for sure," said the 10th seed. "Obviously I had to, going up against the number two in the world, so I knew I had to do better." (With AFP inputs)

Racquet-smashing Novak Djokovic defeats Alexander Zverev to book semi-final spot

Novak Djokovic says it's a "gamble" to keep playing the Australian Open and his abdominal injury could have an impact on the rest of his season, but the world number one is prepared to take the risk.

The Serbian eight-time champion sustained a "muscle tear" during a thrilling five-setter against Taylor Fritz on Friday.

He didn't train the following day but took to Rod Laver Arena Sunday evening dosed up on painkillers to see off the threat posed by big-serving Canadian Milos Raonic over four sets and make the quarter-finals.

Djokovic said the pain was "bearable" and he "somehow managed to find a way and win".

But he is not planning to train again on Monday, instead working on his recovery ahead of his last-eight clash with sixth seed Alexander Zverev.

"I mean, it's kind of a gamble, that's what the medical team told me. It's really unpredictable, you can't know what's going to happen with you once you're on the court," he said.&nbsp;

"You're not gonna save yourself or think about going for that point or this shot or that shot. It just pulls you. It's normal. Playing at this level, you just want to give it your all.&nbsp;

"It could cause much more damage than it is at the moment, but also could go in a good direction."

The 33-year-old refused to say what exactly the problem was, although his abdomen was strapped against Raonic and he said after the Fritz clash that was it "a tear of the muscle".

<h2>- 'There is always a risk' -</h2>

"I know what it is, but I don't want to talk about it now. I'm still in the tournament," he said, conscious that he does not want to give Zverev any extra ammunition to target him.

"I hope you guys understand that. I don't want to speculate too much about it."

Djokovic's win against Raonic was his 300th at a Slam, only the second player in history to reach the mark after Roger Federer, who has 362.&nbsp;

It kept him on track for an 18th Grand Slam title in his bid to close in on the 20 held by the Swiss great and Rafael Nadal.

His drive for more Slam crowns is the reason he hasn't pulled out, making clear that if it was any tournament other than a Grand Slam he would have withdrawn.

But playing on could mean he faces a period on the sidelines after Melbourne to recover.&nbsp;

"I have talked a lot with my own medical team and also the medical team of Tennis Australia -- Australian Open," he said.&nbsp;

"They all share the opinion that there is a slight, very slight, slim chance that I will make a significant damage that would take me out of the tour for whatever, some extended period of time.

"So, yes, there is always a risk that the injury will get worse, but they don't think it's going to be very significantly worse that it's going to jeopardise my entire season.

"So it will jeopardise, depending on how I go here, certain tournaments that are coming after Australian Open that I was maybe thinking to play."

Novak Djokovic says it's a "gamble" to keep playing the Australian Open and his abdominal injury could have an impact on the rest of his season, but the world number one is prepared to take the risk.

Novak Djokovic says it's a "gamble" to keep playing the Australian Open and his abdominal injury could have an impact on the rest of his season, but the world number one is prepared to take the risk. The Serbian eight-time champion sustained a "muscle tear" during a thrilling five-setter against Taylor Fritz on Friday. He didn't train the following day but took to Rod Laver Arena Sunday evening dosed up on painkillers to see off the threat posed by big-serving Canadian Milos Raonic over four sets and make the quarter-finals. Djokovic said the pain was "bearable" and he "somehow managed to find a way and win". But he is not planning to train again on Monday, instead working on his recovery ahead of his last-eight clash with sixth seed Alexander Zverev. "I mean, it's kind of a gamble, that's what the medical team told me. It's really unpredictable, you can't know what's going to happen with you once you're on the court," he said. "You're not gonna save yourself or think about going for that point or this shot or that shot. It just pulls you. It's normal. Playing at this level, you just want to give it your all. "It could cause much more damage than it is at the moment, but also could go in a good direction." The 33-year-old refused to say what exactly the problem was, although his abdomen was strapped against Raonic and he said after the Fritz clash that was it "a tear of the muscle". - 'There is always a risk' - "I know what it is, but I don't want to talk about it now. I'm still in the tournament," he said, conscious that he does not want to give Zverev any extra ammunition to target him. "I hope you guys understand that. I don't want to speculate too much about it." Djokovic's win against Raonic was his 300th at a Slam, only the second player in history to reach the mark after Roger Federer, who has 362. It kept him on track for an 18th Grand Slam title in his bid to close in on the 20 held by the Swiss great and Rafael Nadal. His drive for more Slam crowns is the reason he hasn't pulled out, making clear that if it was any tournament other than a Grand Slam he would have withdrawn. But playing on could mean he faces a period on the sidelines after Melbourne to recover. "I have talked a lot with my own medical team and also the medical team of Tennis Australia -- Australian Open," he said. "They all share the opinion that there is a slight, very slight, slim chance that I will make a significant damage that would take me out of the tour for whatever, some extended period of time. "So, yes, there is always a risk that the injury will get worse, but they don't think it's going to be very significantly worse that it's going to jeopardise my entire season. "So it will jeopardise, depending on how I go here, certain tournaments that are coming after Australian Open that I was maybe thinking to play."

Pain game: Injured Djokovic 'gambles' to play on at Australian Open

Nick Kyrgios' off-court feud with Serbian ace Novak Djokovic is known to all. The outspoken Aussie renewed his animosity after mocking world number with a Djokovic-like entrance to an empty Margaret Court Arena for his doubles match.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-osaka-back-from-the-brink-to-reach-quarter-finals-363507" hreflang="en">Australian Open: Osaka back from the brink to reach quarter-finals</a>

Ahead of his doubles' match alongside Thanasi Kokkinakis, the Australian imitated the way Djokovic celebrates victories with extravagant gestures to all four corners of a stadium.

"Just feeling the love," the maverick Australian, knocked out of the singles by Dominic Thiem on Friday night, said when asked to explain his entrance.

"Just trying to spread the good word of the celebration. Everyone loves that celebration. It's well liked."

Earlier, the Australian called the Serbian a "strange cat". This statement from Kyrgios comes after Djokovic's remarks where he said that he had little respect for the Australian off court.&nbsp;

"It's a strange one for me. I read his comments -– he said he doesn't respect me off the court," said Kyrgios, who has also previously blasted the 17-time Grand Slam winner as having "an obsession with wanting to be liked".

"It actually would make complete sense to me if he was like, 'I don't respect the guy on the court', because I understand if he doesn't agree with some of my antics on the court that I've done in the past.

"I'm not quite sure how you can't respect me off the court," he added.

Nick Kyrgios' off-court feud with Serbian ace Novak Djokovic is known to all. The outspoken Aussie renewed his animosity after mocking world number with a Djokovic-like entrance to an empty Margaret Court Arena for his doubles match.

Nick Kyrgios' off-court feud with Serbian ace Novak Djokovic is known to all. The outspoken Aussie renewed his animosity after mocking world number with a Djokovic-like entrance to an empty Margaret Court Arena for his doubles match. ALSO READ: Australian Open: Osaka back from the brink to reach quarter-finals Ahead of his doubles' match alongside Thanasi Kokkinakis, the Australian imitated the way Djokovic celebrates victories with extravagant gestures to all four corners of a stadium. "Just feeling the love," the maverick Australian, knocked out of the singles by Dominic Thiem on Friday night, said when asked to explain his entrance. "Just trying to spread the good word of the celebration. Everyone loves that celebration. It's well liked." Earlier, the Australian called the Serbian a "strange cat". This statement from Kyrgios comes after Djokovic's remarks where he said that he had little respect for the Australian off court. "It's a strange one for me. I read his comments -– he said he doesn't respect me off the court," said Kyrgios, who has also previously blasted the 17-time Grand Slam winner as having "an obsession with wanting to be liked". "It actually would make complete sense to me if he was like, 'I don't respect the guy on the court', because I understand if he doesn't agree with some of my antics on the court that I've done in the past. "I'm not quite sure how you can't respect me off the court," he added.

'Just feeling the love': Kyrgios' renews his feud with Novak Djokovic with grand entrance

World number one Novak Djokovic missed his Saturday's training session as the Serb waits for his scans after he slipped during the third set of Friday's third-round match against Taylor Fritz and disappeared off Rod Laver Arena for treatment.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pliskova-points-to-ring-rust-as-czech-exits-in-third-round-363304" hreflang="en">Pliskova points to ring rust as Czech exits in third round</a>

Novak Djokovic described it as a "muscle tear" on his right side required further attention on the injury during the third set before he went on to script a five-set win and set up a clash against Milos Raonic on Sunday.

The injury casts cloud on Djokovic's campaign and the defending champion will have to undergo scans before any decision is taken.&nbsp;

However, Australian Open Chief Executive Craig Tiley was confident that Novak will overcome his injury and compete in the fourth round of the Grand Slam.

"We'll see him. He's resilient, he's tough," Tiley told Australian broadcaster Channel Nine.

"He'll wake up today and he'll figure out what it is and he'll go and get the appropriate treatment. The way he was, those two sets, I was pretty surprised.

"But I've seen him play here, this is his court, he gets comfortable on it and he just picks his game up and up and he's that good."

The Serbian tennis ace is a record eight-time Australian Open winner, and was eyeing a ninth title this year. Djokovic has won 17 Grand Slams in total.

World number one Novak Djokovic missed his Saturday's training session as the Serb waits for his scans after he slipped during the third set of Friday's third-round match against Taylor Fritz and disappeared off Rod Laver Arena for treatment.

World number one Novak Djokovic missed his Saturday's training session as the Serb waits for his scans after he slipped during the third set of Friday's third-round match against Taylor Fritz and disappeared off Rod Laver Arena for treatment. ALSO READ: Pliskova points to ring rust as Czech exits in third round Novak Djokovic described it as a "muscle tear" on his right side required further attention on the injury during the third set before he went on to script a five-set win and set up a clash against Milos Raonic on Sunday. The injury casts cloud on Djokovic's campaign and the defending champion will have to undergo scans before any decision is taken. However, Australian Open Chief Executive Craig Tiley was confident that Novak will overcome his injury and compete in the fourth round of the Grand Slam. "We'll see him. He's resilient, he's tough," Tiley told Australian broadcaster Channel Nine. "He'll wake up today and he'll figure out what it is and he'll go and get the appropriate treatment. The way he was, those two sets, I was pretty surprised. "But I've seen him play here, this is his court, he gets comfortable on it and he just picks his game up and up and he's that good." The Serbian tennis ace is a record eight-time Australian Open winner, and was eyeing a ninth title this year. Djokovic has won 17 Grand Slams in total.

Australian Open: Serb ace Novak Djokovic skips training as he awaits scan results

Nick Kyrgios' off-court feud with Serbian ace Novak Djokovic is known to all. The outspoken Aussie hit back at Novak's criticism and called him a "very strange cat".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/flawless-djokovic-crushes-chardy-in-australian-open-warning-362220" hreflang="en">'Flawless' Djokovic crushes Chardy in Australian Open warning</a>

This statement from Kyrgios comes after Djokovic's remarks where he said that he had little respect for the Australian off court.&nbsp;

"It's a strange one for me. I read his comments -– he said he doesn't respect me off the court," said Kyrgios, who has also previously blasted the 17-time Grand Slam winner as having "an obsession with wanting to be liked".

"It actually would make complete sense to me if he was like, 'I don't respect the guy on the court', because I understand if he doesn't agree with some of my antics on the court that I've done in the past.

"I'm not quite sure how you can't respect me off the court," he added.

Also see|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-djokovic-to-nadal-five-mens-singles-players-to-watch-at-the-australian-open-2021-361589" hreflang="en">From Djokovic to Nadal: Five men's singles players to watch at the Australian Open 2021</a>

"I feel like I've gone about things extremely well, especially during the pandemic."

Kyrgios talked about his time off the game last year and said that he delivered food to people in need and said that he chose to abide by Covid-19 regulations, opting not to travel for the US and French Opens. However, he took a dig at the world number one, who contracted the virus days after a video of him shirtless partying. &nbsp;

"I actually do a lot off the court," he said.

"But he's a very strange cat, Novak is. A heck of a tennis player, but unfortunately someone who's partying with his shirt off during a global pandemic, I don't know if I can take any slack from that man."

Nick Kyrgios' off-court feud with Serbian ace Novak Djokovic is known to all. The outspoken Aussie hit back at Novak's criticism and called him a "very strange cat".

Nick Kyrgios' off-court feud with Serbian ace Novak Djokovic is known to all. The outspoken Aussie hit back at Novak's criticism and called him a "very strange cat". Also read: 'Flawless' Djokovic crushes Chardy in Australian Open warning This statement from Kyrgios comes after Djokovic's remarks where he said that he had little respect for the Australian off court. "It's a strange one for me. I read his comments -– he said he doesn't respect me off the court," said Kyrgios, who has also previously blasted the 17-time Grand Slam winner as having "an obsession with wanting to be liked". "It actually would make complete sense to me if he was like, 'I don't respect the guy on the court', because I understand if he doesn't agree with some of my antics on the court that I've done in the past. "I'm not quite sure how you can't respect me off the court," he added. Also see| From Djokovic to Nadal: Five men's singles players to watch at the Australian Open 2021 "I feel like I've gone about things extremely well, especially during the pandemic." Kyrgios talked about his time off the game last year and said that he delivered food to people in need and said that he chose to abide by Covid-19 regulations, opting not to travel for the US and French Opens. However, he took a dig at the world number one, who contracted the virus days after a video of him shirtless partying. "I actually do a lot off the court," he said. "But he's a very strange cat, Novak is. A heck of a tennis player, but unfortunately someone who's partying with his shirt off during a global pandemic, I don't know if I can take any slack from that man."

'He's a very strange cat': Nick Kyrgios hits back at Novak Djokovic

Defending champion Novak Djokovic said he played "flawless and dominant" tennis to blast past Frenchman Jeremy Chardy Monday in an ominous start to his bid for an unprecedented ninth Australian Open title.

The Serbian world number one, who clinched his 17th Grand Slam in last year's gripping Melbourne final against Dominic Thiem, wasted little energy in the 6-3, 6-1, 6-2 romp in just 91 minutes on Rod Laver Arena.

The writing was on the wall with Chardy failing to take a set off the Serb in 13 previous meetings.

"It felt great. I mean, I started the match really well, broke his serve and was pretty much a flawless match," he said, adding that he felt "relaxed and comfortable".&nbsp;

"Especially on my service games, I was very dominant. Just overall, I think every shot that I executed tonight was really good and on a high level.

"I'm very pleased with the way I opened up the Australian Open."

Djokovic, chasing an 18th Slam crown to close in on the 20 held by Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, has likened his relationship with the Australian Open to "a love affair".

And he clearly enjoyed himself, dishing up a masterclass for the socially-distanced fans in the stadium.

"It feels great, so great to see people back in the stadium," he said.

"I'm really glad to see a lot of people actually -- this is the most I've seen on a tennis court in 12 months."

"Sometimes we take these things (crowds) for granted, but very very grateful to see you all," he added.

<h2>- 'Sticking to the game plan' -</h2>

The 33-year-old broke Chardy in the opening game and was never troubled, racing through the set in 32 minutes, with the Frenchman winning just two points off the Serb's service game.

It was similar scenario in a lopsided second set, which only lasted 22 minutes, as Chardy struggled to cope with the ferocity of Djokovic's serving, which routinely clocked in at more than 200 kph (124 mph).

Chardy, who made the semi-finals of the warm-up Murray River Open tournament, surrendered meekly, with Djokovic winning the match with his ninth ace.

"Of course, you are expected to win most of the times as a top player and kind of ease your way through the first rounds," said Djokovic.

"But, you know, I don't see it that way, obviously. You still have to do your job on the court. So I was sticking to the game plan."

The Serb has won a record eight times in Melbourne, the scene of his maiden Grand Slam triumph in 2008, and is unbeaten on the famous blue courts since his shock defeat by South Korea's Hyeon Chung in the 2018 round of 16.

He next faces American Frances Tiafoe in a tricky side of the draw with 2014 champion Stan Wawrinka and former world number three Milos Raonic potential obstacles en route to the quarter-finals.

"It's the first time I will face him, he's definitely one of the up-and-coming American tennis players," Djokovic said of Tiafoe. "I'm looking forward to the next challenge."

Defending champion Novak Djokovic said he played "flawless and dominant" tennis to blast past Frenchman Jeremy Chardy Monday in an ominous start to his bid for an unprecedented ninth Australian Open title.

Defending champion Novak Djokovic said he played "flawless and dominant" tennis to blast past Frenchman Jeremy Chardy Monday in an ominous start to his bid for an unprecedented ninth Australian Open title. The Serbian world number one, who clinched his 17th Grand Slam in last year's gripping Melbourne final against Dominic Thiem, wasted little energy in the 6-3, 6-1, 6-2 romp in just 91 minutes on Rod Laver Arena. The writing was on the wall with Chardy failing to take a set off the Serb in 13 previous meetings. "It felt great. I mean, I started the match really well, broke his serve and was pretty much a flawless match," he said, adding that he felt "relaxed and comfortable". "Especially on my service games, I was very dominant. Just overall, I think every shot that I executed tonight was really good and on a high level. "I'm very pleased with the way I opened up the Australian Open." Djokovic, chasing an 18th Slam crown to close in on the 20 held by Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, has likened his relationship with the Australian Open to "a love affair". And he clearly enjoyed himself, dishing up a masterclass for the socially-distanced fans in the stadium. "It feels great, so great to see people back in the stadium," he said. "I'm really glad to see a lot of people actually -- this is the most I've seen on a tennis court in 12 months." "Sometimes we take these things (crowds) for granted, but very very grateful to see you all," he added. - 'Sticking to the game plan' - The 33-year-old broke Chardy in the opening game and was never troubled, racing through the set in 32 minutes, with the Frenchman winning just two points off the Serb's service game. It was similar scenario in a lopsided second set, which only lasted 22 minutes, as Chardy struggled to cope with the ferocity of Djokovic's serving, which routinely clocked in at more than 200 kph (124 mph). Chardy, who made the semi-finals of the warm-up Murray River Open tournament, surrendered meekly, with Djokovic winning the match with his ninth ace. "Of course, you are expected to win most of the times as a top player and kind of ease your way through the first rounds," said Djokovic. "But, you know, I don't see it that way, obviously. You still have to do your job on the court. So I was sticking to the game plan." The Serb has won a record eight times in Melbourne, the scene of his maiden Grand Slam triumph in 2008, and is unbeaten on the famous blue courts since his shock defeat by South Korea's Hyeon Chung in the 2018 round of 16. He next faces American Frances Tiafoe in a tricky side of the draw with 2014 champion Stan Wawrinka and former world number three Milos Raonic potential obstacles en route to the quarter-finals. "It's the first time I will face him, he's definitely one of the up-and-coming American tennis players," Djokovic said of Tiafoe. "I'm looking forward to the next challenge."

'Flawless' Djokovic crushes Chardy in Australian Open warning

Serbian ace Novak Djokovic on Sunday hit back at Nick Kyrgios, who criticised the world number one, saying that he has little respect for the outspoken Australian off the tennis court.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/japanese-ace-naomi-osaka-calls-mori-ignorant-over-sexist-remarks-361827" hreflang="en">Japanese ace Naomi Osaka calls Mori 'ignorant' over sexist remarks</a>

The Australian ace, who has been a constant critic of Djokovic, called him a "tool" on social media last month after the Serb sent Australian Open organisers a list of requests from players seeking to have quarantine restrictions eased during their mandatory two-week isolation.

Djokovic hit back by saying that Kyrgios is good in tennis, and the Australian is talented enough to beat anyone, however, away from the game, he was not someone the Serb admired.

ALSO SEE|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-djokovic-to-nadal-five-mens-singles-players-to-watch-at-the-australian-open-2021-361589" hreflang="en">From Djokovic to Nadal: Five men's singles players to watch at the Australian Open 2021</a>

"My respect goes to him for the tennis he's playing. I think he's a very talented guy," Djokovic told reporters.

"He's got a big game. He has proven that he has the quality to beat any player really in the world in the past.

"Off the court, I don't have much respect for him, to be honest. That's where I'll close it.

"I really don't have any further comments for him, his own comments for me or anything else he's trying to do."

Serbian ace Novak Djokovic on Sunday hit back at Nick Kyrgios, who criticised the world number one, saying that he has little respect for the outspoken Australian off the tennis court.

Serbian ace Novak Djokovic on Sunday hit back at Nick Kyrgios, who criticised the world number one, saying that he has little respect for the outspoken Australian off the tennis court. ALSO READ: Japanese ace Naomi Osaka calls Mori 'ignorant' over sexist remarks The Australian ace, who has been a constant critic of Djokovic, called him a "tool" on social media last month after the Serb sent Australian Open organisers a list of requests from players seeking to have quarantine restrictions eased during their mandatory two-week isolation. Djokovic hit back by saying that Kyrgios is good in tennis, and the Australian is talented enough to beat anyone, however, away from the game, he was not someone the Serb admired. ALSO SEE| From Djokovic to Nadal: Five men's singles players to watch at the Australian Open 2021 "My respect goes to him for the tennis he's playing. I think he's a very talented guy," Djokovic told reporters. "He's got a big game. He has proven that he has the quality to beat any player really in the world in the past. "Off the court, I don't have much respect for him, to be honest. That's where I'll close it. "I really don't have any further comments for him, his own comments for me or anything else he's trying to do."

'I don't have much respect for him': Novak Djokovic hits back at Nick Kyrgios

From Djokovic to Nadal: Five men's singles players to watch at the Australian Open 2021

Australian Open has released its seeds and draw as the year's first Grand Slam is set to kick off on February 8 at Melbourne Park. Defending champion and world no. 1 Novak Djokovic will begin his campaign against Frenchman Jeremy Chardy while reigning women's champion Sofia Kenin locks horns with wild card Maddison Inglis.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/furious-nick-kyrgios-smashes-racquet-and-throws-it-in-stands-during-murray-river-open-361473" hreflang="en">Furious Nick Kyrgios' smashes racquet and throws it in stands during Murray River Open</a>

Spanish ace Rafael Nadal will clash with Serbia's Laslo Djere in his opener, hoping to win the Grand Slam and overtaking Roger Federer, who has 20 major titles to his name. The Swiss star will not be playing this year due to knee injury.&nbsp;

Women's world no. 1 Ashleigh Barty will take on Danka Kovinic in her quest to become the first homegrown singles winner at the Australian Open since 1978.&nbsp;

American star Serena Williams, who is hopeful of record-equalling 24th Grand Slam, will take on Laura Siegemund in the opening round.

<h2>SEEDS:&nbsp;</h2>

<h2>Men's singles</h2>

1. Novak Djokovic (SRB), 2. Rafael Nadal (ESP), 3. Dominic Thiem (AUT, 4. Daniil Medvedev (RUS), 5. Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE), 6. Alexander Zverev (GER), 7. Andrey Rublev (RUS), 8. Diego Schwartzman (ARG), 9. Matteo Berrettini (ITA), 10. Gael Monfils (FRA), 11. Denis Shapovalov (CAN), 12. Roberto Bautista Agut (ESP), 13. David Goffin (BEL), 14. Milos Raonic (CAN), 15. Pablo Carreno Busta (ESP), 16. Fabio Fognini (ITA), 17. Stan Wawrinka (SUI), 18. Grigor Dimitrov (BUL), 19. Karen Khachanov (RUS), 20. Felix Auger-Aliassime (CAN), 21. Alex de Minaur (AUS), 22. Borna Coric (CRO), 23. Dusan Lajovic (SRB), 24. Casper Ruud (NOR), 25. Benoit Paire (FRA), 26. Hubert Hurkacz (POL), 27. Taylor Fritz (USA), 28. Filip Krajinovic (SRB), 29. Ugo Humbert (FRA), Dan Evans (GBR)

<h2> 
Women's singles</h2>

1. Ashleigh Barty (AUS), 2. Simona Halep (ROU), 3. Naomi Osaka (JPN), 4. Sofia Kenin (USA), 5. Elina Svitolina (UKR), 6. Karolina Pliskova (CZE), 7. Aryna Sabalenka (BLR), 8. Bianca Andreescu (CAN), 9. Petra Kvitova (CZE), 10. Serena Williams (USA), 11. Belinda Bencic (SUI), 12. Victoria Azarenka (BLR), 13. Johanna Konta (GBR), 14. Garbine Muguruza (ESP), 15. Iga Swiatek (POL), 16. Petra Martic (CRO), 17. Elena Rybakina (KAZ), 18. Elise Mertens (BEL), 19. Marketa Vondrousova (CZE), 20. Maria Sakkari (GRE), 21. Anita Kontaveit (EST), 22. Jennifer Brady (USA), 23. Angelique Kerber (GER), 24. Alison Riske (USA), 25. Karolina Muchova (CZE), 26. Yulia Putintseva (KAZ), 27. Ons Jabeur (TUN), 28. Donna Vekic (CRO), 29. Ekaterina Alexandrova (RUS), 30. Wang Qiang (CHN), 31. Zhang Shuai (CHN), 32. Veronika Kudermetova (RUS)&nbsp;

<h2> 
Australian Open 2021 DRAW:&nbsp;</h2>

<h2>Men's Singles:&nbsp;</h2>

Novak Djokovic (SRB x1) v Jeremy Chardy (FRA)

Frances Tiafoe (USA) v Stefano Travaglia (ITA)

Reilly Opelka (USA) v Lu Yen-hsun (TPE)

Albert Ramos-Vinolas (ESP) v Taylor Fritz (USA

Stan Wawrinka (SUI x17) v Pedro Sousa (POR)

Martin Fucsovics (HUN) v Marc Polmans AUS

Corentin Moutet (FRA) v John Millman (AUS)

Federico Coria (ARG) v Milos Raonic (CAN x14)

Gael Monfils (FRA x10) v Emil Ruusuvuori (FIN)

Yoshihito Nishioka (JPN) v Pedro Martinez (ESP)

Aljaz Bedene (SLO) v Alexander Bublik (KAZ)

Sergiy Stakhovsky (UKR) v Dusan Lajovic (SRB x23)

Adrian Mannarino (FRA x32) v Dennis Novak (AUT)

Moimir Kecmanovic (SRB) v Kamil Majchrzak (POL)

Taro Daniel (JPN) v Maxime Cressy (USA)

Marcos Giron (USA) v Alexander Zverev (GER x6)

Dominic Thiem (AUT x3) v Mikhail Kukushkin (KAZ)

Dominik Koepfer (GER) v Hugo Dellien (BOL)

Frederico Ferreira Silva (POR) v Nick Kyrgios (AUS)

Yasutaka Uchiyama (JPN) v Ugo Humbert (FRA x29)

Grigor Dimitrov (BUL x18) v Marin Cilic (CRO)

Alex Bolt (AUS) v Norbert Gombos (SVK)

Kimmer Coppejans (BEL) v Jiri Vesely (CZE)

Kei Nishikori (JPN) v Pablo Carreno Busta (ESP x15)

Denis Shapovalov (CAN x11) v Jannik Sinner (ITA)

Yuichi Sugita (JPN) v Bernard Tomic (AUS)

Damir Dzumhur (BIH) v James Duckworth (AUS)

Cedrik-Marcel Stebe (GER) v Felix Auger-Aliassime (CAN x20)&nbsp;

Benoit Paire (FRA x 25) v Egor Gerasimov (BLR)

Gianluca Mager (ITA) v Aslan Karatsev (RUS)

Federico Delbonis (ARG) v Juan Ignacio Londero (ARG)

Elias Ymer (SWE) v Diego Schwartzman (ARG x8)

Andrey Rublev (RUS x7) v Yannick Hanfmann (GER)

Thiago Monteiro (BRA) v Andrej Martin (SVK)

Li Tu (AUS) v Feliciano Lopez (ESP)

Sam Querrey (USA) v Lorenzo Sonego (ITA x31)&nbsp;

Casper Ruud (NOR x24) v Jordan Thompson (AUS)

Nikoloz Basilashvili (GEO) v Tommy Paul (USA)

Christopher O'Connell (AUS) v Jan-Lennard Struff (GER)

Radu Albot (MDA) v Roberto Bautista Agut (ESP x12)

David Goffin (BEL x13) v Alexei Popyrin (AUS)

Lloyd HARRIS (RSA) v Mikael Torpegaard (DEN)

Mackenzie McDonald (USA) v Marco Cecchinato (ITA)

Guido Pella (ARG) v Borna Coric (CRO x22)

Filip Krajinovic (SRB x28) v Robin Haase (NED)

Pablo Andujar (ESP) v Quentin Halys (FRA)

Roberto Carballes Baena (ESP) v Attila Balazs (HUN)

Vasek Pospisil (CAN) v Daniil Medvedev (RUS x4)

Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE x5) v Gilles Simon (FRA)

Thanasi Kokkinakis (AUS) v Kwon Soon-woo (KOR)

Botic Van de Zandshhulp (NED) v Carlos Alcaraz (ESP)

Mikael Ymer (SWE) v Hubert Hurkacz (POL x26)

Karen Khachanov (RUS x19) v Aleksander Vukic (AUS)

Ricardas Berankis (LTU) v Sumit Nagal (IND)

Tomas Machac (CZE) v Mario Vilella Martinez (ESP)

Kevin Anderson (RSA) v Matteo Berrettini (ITA x9)

Fabio Fognini (ITA x16) v Pierre-Hugues Herbert (FRA)

Henri Laaksonen (SUI) v Salvatore Caruso (ITA)

Pablo Cuevas (URU) v Andreas Seppi (ITA)

Tennys Sandgren (USA) v Alex De Minaur (AUS x21)

Dan Evans (GBR x30) v Cameron Norrie (GBR)

Ilya Ivashka (BLR) v Roman Safiullin (RUS)

Michael Mmoh (USA) v Victor Troicki (SRB)

Laslo Djere (SRB) v Rafael Nadal (ESP x2)

<h2>Women's Singles:&nbsp;</h2>

Ashleigh Barty (AUS x1) v Danka Kovinic (MNE)

Sara Sorribes Tormo (ESP) v Daria Gavrilova (AUS)

Zheng Saisai (CHN) v Barbora Krejcikova (CZE)&nbsp;

Martina Trevisan (ITA) v Ekaterina Alexandrova (RUS x29)

Anett Kontaveit (EST x21) v Aliaksandra Sasnovich (BLR)

Kristyna Pliskova (CZE) v Heather Watson (GBR)

Francesca Jones (GBR) v Shelby Rogers (USA)

Olga Danilovic (SRB) v Petra Martic (CRO x16)

Belinda Bencic (SUI x11) v Lauren Davis (USA)

Svetlana Kuznetsova (RUS) v Barbora Strycova (CZE)

Lin Zhu (CHN) v Whitney Osuigwe (USA)

Leylah Fernandez (CAN) v Elise Mertens (BEL x18)&nbsp;

Karolina Muchova (CZE x25) v Jelena Ostapenko (LAT)

Mona Barthel (GER) v Elisabetta Cocciaretto (ITA)

Danielle Collins (USA) v Ana Bogdan (ROM)

Jasmine Paolini (ITA) v Karolina Pliskova (CZE x6)

Sofia Kenin (USA x4) v Maddison Inglis (AUS)

Anastasija Sevastova (LAT) v Kaia Kanepi (EST)

Nadia Podoroska (ARG) v Christina McHale (USA)&nbsp;

Wang Yafan (CHN) v Donna Vekic (CRO x28)

Jennifer Brady (USA x22) v Aliona Bolsova (ESP)

Madison Brengle (USA) v Arina Rodionova (AUS)

Chloe Paquet (FRA) v Mayar Sherif (EGY)&nbsp;

Kaja Juvan (SLO) v Johanna Konta (GBR x13)

Victoria Azarenka (BLR x12) v Jessica Pegula (USA)&nbsp;

Destanee Aiava (AUS) v Samantha Stosur (AUS)

Nao Hibino (JPN) v Astra Sharma (AUS)&nbsp;

Kristina Mladenovic (FRA) v Maria Sakkari (GRE x20)

Yulia Putinseva (KAZ x26) v Sloane Stephens (USA)&nbsp;

Alison Van Uytvanck (BEL) v Clara Burel (FRA)

Coco Gauff (USA) v Jil Teichmann (SUI)

Marie Bouzkova v Elina Svitolina (UKR x5)

Bianca Andreescu (CAN x8) v &nbsp;Mihaela Buzarnescu (ROM)

Hsieh Su-wei (TPE) v Tsvetana Pironkova (BUL)

Kirsten Flipkens (BEL) v Venus Williams (USA) 71

Sara Errani (ITA) v Wang Qiang (CHN x30)

Marketa Vondrousova (CZE x19)v Rebecca Peterson (SWE)

Rebecca Marino (CAN) v Kimberly Birrell (AUS)

Patricia Maria Tig (ROM) v Sorana Cirstea (ROU)

Greet Minnen (BEL) v Petra Kvitova (CZE x9)

Garbine Muguruza (ESP x14) v Margarita Gasparayan (RUS)

Liudmila Samsonova (RUS) v Paula Badosa (ESP)

Zarina Diyas (KAZ) v Tamara Zidansek (SLO)&nbsp;

Bernarda Pera (USA) v Angelique Kerber (GER x23)

Ons Jabeur (TUN x27) v Andrea Petkovic (GER)&nbsp;

Mayo Hibi (JPN) v Anna Karolina Schmiedlova (SVK)

Polona Hercog (SLO) v Caroline Garcia (FRA)&nbsp;

Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova v Naomi Osaka (JPN x3)

Aryna Sabalenka (BLR x7) v Viktoria Kuzmova (SVK)

Katie Boulter (GBR) v Daria Kasatkina (RUS)

Alize Cornet (FRA) v Valeria Savinykh (RUS)&nbsp;

Ann Li (USA)v Zhang Shuai (CHN x31)

Alison Riske (USA x24) v Anastasia Potapova (RUS)

Timea Babos (HUN) v Ysaline Bonaventure (BEL)

Nina Stojanovic (SRB) v Irina-Camelia Begu (ROU)

Laura Siegemund (GER) v Serena Williams (USA x10)

Iga Swiatek (POL x15) v Arantxa Rus (NED)

Yaroslava Shedova (KAZ) v Camila Giorgi (ITA)

Fiona Ferro (FRA) v Katerina Siniakova (CZE)

Vera Zvonareva (RUS) v Elena Rybakina (KAZ x17)

Veronika Kudermetova (RUS x32) v Marta Kostyuk (UKR)

Varvara Gracheva (RUS) v Anna Blinkova (RUS)

Misaki Doi (JPN) v Ajla Tomljanovic (AUS)

Lizette Cabrera (AUS) v Simona Halep (ROM x2)

Australian Open has released its seeds and draw as the year's first Grand Slam is set to kick off on February 8 at Melbourne Park. Defending champion and world no.

Australian Open has released its seeds and draw as the year's first Grand Slam is set to kick off on February 8 at Melbourne Park. Defending champion and world no. 1 Novak Djokovic will begin his campaign against Frenchman Jeremy Chardy while reigning women's champion Sofia Kenin locks horns with wild card Maddison Inglis. ALSO READ: Furious Nick Kyrgios' smashes racquet and throws it in stands during Murray River Open Spanish ace Rafael Nadal will clash with Serbia's Laslo Djere in his opener, hoping to win the Grand Slam and overtaking Roger Federer, who has 20 major titles to his name. The Swiss star will not be playing this year due to knee injury. Women's world no. 1 Ashleigh Barty will take on Danka Kovinic in her quest to become the first homegrown singles winner at the Australian Open since 1978. American star Serena Williams, who is hopeful of record-equalling 24th Grand Slam, will take on Laura Siegemund in the opening round. SEEDS: Men's singles 1. Novak Djokovic (SRB), 2. Rafael Nadal (ESP), 3. Dominic Thiem (AUT, 4. Daniil Medvedev (RUS), 5. Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE), 6. Alexander Zverev (GER), 7. Andrey Rublev (RUS), 8. Diego Schwartzman (ARG), 9. Matteo Berrettini (ITA), 10. Gael Monfils (FRA), 11. Denis Shapovalov (CAN), 12. Roberto Bautista Agut (ESP), 13. David Goffin (BEL), 14. Milos Raonic (CAN), 15. Pablo Carreno Busta (ESP), 16. Fabio Fognini (ITA), 17. Stan Wawrinka (SUI), 18. Grigor Dimitrov (BUL), 19. Karen Khachanov (RUS), 20. Felix Auger-Aliassime (CAN), 21. Alex de Minaur (AUS), 22. Borna Coric (CRO), 23. Dusan Lajovic (SRB), 24. Casper Ruud (NOR), 25. Benoit Paire (FRA), 26. Hubert Hurkacz (POL), 27. Taylor Fritz (USA), 28. Filip Krajinovic (SRB), 29. Ugo Humbert (FRA), Dan Evans (GBR) Women's singles 1. Ashleigh Barty (AUS), 2. Simona Halep (ROU), 3. Naomi Osaka (JPN), 4. Sofia Kenin (USA), 5. Elina Svitolina (UKR), 6. Karolina Pliskova (CZE), 7. Aryna Sabalenka (BLR), 8. Bianca Andreescu (CAN), 9. Petra Kvitova (CZE), 10. Serena Williams (USA), 11. Belinda Bencic (SUI), 12. Victoria Azarenka (BLR), 13. Johanna Konta (GBR), 14. Garbine Muguruza (ESP), 15. Iga Swiatek (POL), 16. Petra Martic (CRO), 17. Elena Rybakina (KAZ), 18. Elise Mertens (BEL), 19. Marketa Vondrousova (CZE), 20. Maria Sakkari (GRE), 21. Anita Kontaveit (EST), 22. Jennifer Brady (USA), 23. Angelique Kerber (GER), 24. Alison Riske (USA), 25. Karolina Muchova (CZE), 26. Yulia Putintseva (KAZ), 27. Ons Jabeur (TUN), 28. Donna Vekic (CRO), 29. Ekaterina Alexandrova (RUS), 30. Wang Qiang (CHN), 31. Zhang Shuai (CHN), 32. Veronika Kudermetova (RUS) Australian Open 2021 DRAW: Men's Singles: Novak Djokovic (SRB x1) v Jeremy Chardy (FRA) Frances Tiafoe (USA) v Stefano Travaglia (ITA) Reilly Opelka (USA) v Lu Yen-hsun (TPE) Albert Ramos-Vinolas (ESP) v Taylor Fritz (USA Stan Wawrinka (SUI x17) v Pedro Sousa (POR) Martin Fucsovics (HUN) v Marc Polmans AUS Corentin Moutet (FRA) v John Millman (AUS) Federico Coria (ARG) v Milos Raonic (CAN x14) Gael Monfils (FRA x10) v Emil Ruusuvuori (FIN) Yoshihito Nishioka (JPN) v Pedro Martinez (ESP) Aljaz Bedene (SLO) v Alexander Bublik (KAZ) Sergiy Stakhovsky (UKR) v Dusan Lajovic (SRB x23) Adrian Mannarino (FRA x32) v Dennis Novak (AUT) Moimir Kecmanovic (SRB) v Kamil Majchrzak (POL) Taro Daniel (JPN) v Maxime Cressy (USA) Marcos Giron (USA) v Alexander Zverev (GER x6) Dominic Thiem (AUT x3) v Mikhail Kukushkin (KAZ) Dominik Koepfer (GER) v Hugo Dellien (BOL) Frederico Ferreira Silva (POR) v Nick Kyrgios (AUS) Yasutaka Uchiyama (JPN) v Ugo Humbert (FRA x29) Grigor Dimitrov (BUL x18) v Marin Cilic (CRO) Alex Bolt (AUS) v Norbert Gombos (SVK) Kimmer Coppejans (BEL) v Jiri Vesely (CZE) Kei Nishikori (JPN) v Pablo Carreno Busta (ESP x15) Denis Shapovalov (CAN x11) v Jannik Sinner (ITA) Yuichi Sugita (JPN) v Bernard Tomic (AUS) Damir Dzumhur (BIH) v James Duckworth (AUS) Cedrik-Marcel Stebe (GER) v Felix Auger-Aliassime (CAN x20) Benoit Paire (FRA x 25) v Egor Gerasimov (BLR) Gianluca Mager (ITA) v Aslan Karatsev (RUS) Federico Delbonis (ARG) v Juan Ignacio Londero (ARG) Elias Ymer (SWE) v Diego Schwartzman (ARG x8) Andrey Rublev (RUS x7) v Yannick Hanfmann (GER) Thiago Monteiro (BRA) v Andrej Martin (SVK) Li Tu (AUS) v Feliciano Lopez (ESP) Sam Querrey (USA) v Lorenzo Sonego (ITA x31) Casper Ruud (NOR x24) v Jordan Thompson (AUS) Nikoloz Basilashvili (GEO) v Tommy Paul (USA) Christopher O'Connell (AUS) v Jan-Lennard Struff (GER) Radu Albot (MDA) v Roberto Bautista Agut (ESP x12) David Goffin (BEL x13) v Alexei Popyrin (AUS) Lloyd HARRIS (RSA) v Mikael Torpegaard (DEN) Mackenzie McDonald (USA) v Marco Cecchinato (ITA) Guido Pella (ARG) v Borna Coric (CRO x22) Filip Krajinovic (SRB x28) v Robin Haase (NED) Pablo Andujar (ESP) v Quentin Halys (FRA) Roberto Carballes Baena (ESP) v Attila Balazs (HUN) Vasek Pospisil (CAN) v Daniil Medvedev (RUS x4) Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE x5) v Gilles Simon (FRA) Thanasi Kokkinakis (AUS) v Kwon Soon-woo (KOR) Botic Van de Zandshhulp (NED) v Carlos Alcaraz (ESP) Mikael Ymer (SWE) v Hubert Hurkacz (POL x26) Karen Khachanov (RUS x19) v Aleksander Vukic (AUS) Ricardas Berankis (LTU) v Sumit Nagal (IND) Tomas Machac (CZE) v Mario Vilella Martinez (ESP) Kevin Anderson (RSA) v Matteo Berrettini (ITA x9) Fabio Fognini (ITA x16) v Pierre-Hugues Herbert (FRA) Henri Laaksonen (SUI) v Salvatore Caruso (ITA) Pablo Cuevas (URU) v Andreas Seppi (ITA) Tennys Sandgren (USA) v Alex De Minaur (AUS x21) Dan Evans (GBR x30) v Cameron Norrie (GBR) Ilya Ivashka (BLR) v Roman Safiullin (RUS) Michael Mmoh (USA) v Victor Troicki (SRB) Laslo Djere (SRB) v Rafael Nadal (ESP x2) Women's Singles: Ashleigh Barty (AUS x1) v Danka Kovinic (MNE) Sara Sorribes Tormo (ESP) v Daria Gavrilova (AUS) Zheng Saisai (CHN) v Barbora Krejcikova (CZE) Martina Trevisan (ITA) v Ekaterina Alexandrova (RUS x29) Anett Kontaveit (EST x21) v Aliaksandra Sasnovich (BLR) Kristyna Pliskova (CZE) v Heather Watson (GBR) Francesca Jones (GBR) v Shelby Rogers (USA) Olga Danilovic (SRB) v Petra Martic (CRO x16) Belinda Bencic (SUI x11) v Lauren Davis (USA) Svetlana Kuznetsova (RUS) v Barbora Strycova (CZE) Lin Zhu (CHN) v Whitney Osuigwe (USA) Leylah Fernandez (CAN) v Elise Mertens (BEL x18) Karolina Muchova (CZE x25) v Jelena Ostapenko (LAT) Mona Barthel (GER) v Elisabetta Cocciaretto (ITA) Danielle Collins (USA) v Ana Bogdan (ROM) Jasmine Paolini (ITA) v Karolina Pliskova (CZE x6) Sofia Kenin (USA x4) v Maddison Inglis (AUS) Anastasija Sevastova (LAT) v Kaia Kanepi (EST) Nadia Podoroska (ARG) v Christina McHale (USA) Wang Yafan (CHN) v Donna Vekic (CRO x28) Jennifer Brady (USA x22) v Aliona Bolsova (ESP) Madison Brengle (USA) v Arina Rodionova (AUS) Chloe Paquet (FRA) v Mayar Sherif (EGY) Kaja Juvan (SLO) v Johanna Konta (GBR x13) Victoria Azarenka (BLR x12) v Jessica Pegula (USA) Destanee Aiava (AUS) v Samantha Stosur (AUS) Nao Hibino (JPN) v Astra Sharma (AUS) Kristina Mladenovic (FRA) v Maria Sakkari (GRE x20) Yulia Putinseva (KAZ x26) v Sloane Stephens (USA) Alison Van Uytvanck (BEL) v Clara Burel (FRA) Coco Gauff (USA) v Jil Teichmann (SUI) Marie Bouzkova v Elina Svitolina (UKR x5) Bianca Andreescu (CAN x8) v Mihaela Buzarnescu (ROM) Hsieh Su-wei (TPE) v Tsvetana Pironkova (BUL) Kirsten Flipkens (BEL) v Venus Williams (USA) 71 Sara Errani (ITA) v Wang Qiang (CHN x30) Marketa Vondrousova (CZE x19)v Rebecca Peterson (SWE) Rebecca Marino (CAN) v Kimberly Birrell (AUS) Patricia Maria Tig (ROM) v Sorana Cirstea (ROU) Greet Minnen (BEL) v Petra Kvitova (CZE x9) Garbine Muguruza (ESP x14) v Margarita Gasparayan (RUS) Liudmila Samsonova (RUS) v Paula Badosa (ESP) Zarina Diyas (KAZ) v Tamara Zidansek (SLO) Bernarda Pera (USA) v Angelique Kerber (GER x23) Ons Jabeur (TUN x27) v Andrea Petkovic (GER) Mayo Hibi (JPN) v Anna Karolina Schmiedlova (SVK) Polona Hercog (SLO) v Caroline Garcia (FRA) Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova v Naomi Osaka (JPN x3) Aryna Sabalenka (BLR x7) v Viktoria Kuzmova (SVK) Katie Boulter (GBR) v Daria Kasatkina (RUS) Alize Cornet (FRA) v Valeria Savinykh (RUS) Ann Li (USA)v Zhang Shuai (CHN x31) Alison Riske (USA x24) v Anastasia Potapova (RUS) Timea Babos (HUN) v Ysaline Bonaventure (BEL) Nina Stojanovic (SRB) v Irina-Camelia Begu (ROU) Laura Siegemund (GER) v Serena Williams (USA x10) Iga Swiatek (POL x15) v Arantxa Rus (NED) Yaroslava Shedova (KAZ) v Camila Giorgi (ITA) Fiona Ferro (FRA) v Katerina Siniakova (CZE) Vera Zvonareva (RUS) v Elena Rybakina (KAZ x17) Veronika Kudermetova (RUS x32) v Marta Kostyuk (UKR) Varvara Gracheva (RUS) v Anna Blinkova (RUS) Misaki Doi (JPN) v Ajla Tomljanovic (AUS) Lizette Cabrera (AUS) v Simona Halep (ROM x2)

Australian Open 2021 Draw: Novak Djokovic faces Chardy as Sofia Kenin meets Inglis

Australian Open champion Novak Djokovic got his season off to a perfect start with a battling win over hot-shot Denis Shapovalov in the ATP Cup Tuesday, but world number three Dominic Thiem crashed to defeat.

The Serbian world number one, who will be chasing a ninth Australian Open crown when the first Grand Slam of the year begins on Monday, was pushed hard before coming through 7-5, 7-5 against the Canadian on Rod Laver Arena&nbsp;

Djokovic showed no signs of being hindered by a nasty blister on his racquet hand that troubled him at an Adelaide exhibition last week and returned 30 minutes later alongside Filip Frajinovic to play the decisive doubles rubber.

The pair beat Shapovalov and Milos Raonic 7-5, 7-6 (7/4)&nbsp;as defending champions Serbia took the tie against Canada 2-1 in Group A.

"It was a great opening of the season. Playing Shapo is always a great challenge on hardcourts, he is such a dynamic, explosive player," said Djokovic, who was fired up by playing in front of a smattering of noisy Serbian fans.

"I thought we both played on a pretty high level, so I'm really pleased with the way I started the season.

"This is a great competition," added Djokovic, who won all eight matches he contested en route to the trophy last year.&nbsp;

"We need more competitions where we represent a team, represent our country."&nbsp;

Serbia beat Rafael Nadal's Spain in the final of the inaugural and hugely popular tournament last year in Sydney -- launched as a rival to the Davis Cup.

It has been slimmed down from 24 teams to 12 this year due to the coronavirus with all matches at Melbourne Park over five days with US$7.5 million at stake, rather than the multi-city format employed in 2020.

Spain face a tough opening tie later Tuesday against hosts Australia, with Nadal up against fast-improving Alex de Minaur.

On a cool day, big-serving Raonic got Canada off to a blistering start, crushing Dusan Lajovic 6-3, 6-4 in just 79 minutes to give his team a 1-0 lead, with the former world number three, now ranked 15, dropping just eight points on serve while sending down 11 aces.

It was left to Djokovic to level the tie before clinching the doubles rubber.

The Alexander Zverev-led Germany are also in Group A and play Wednesday.

<h2>- Thiem tumbles -</h2>

While Djokovic tasted victory, US Open champion Thiem, who lost to the Serb in a gripping Australian Open final last year, got his season off to a disappointing start.

He slumped 6-2, 6-4 to Italian world number 10 Matteo Berrettini who never allowed the Austrian to get going with his big-swinging game.

"I'm very happy obviously for myself, but in this competition we're playing for a team, so it's really nice," Berrettini said. "I'm really happy with my performance.

"Playing for your country is something special."

Berrettini was under pressure after Austria took the lead in their Group C clash when 100th-ranked Dennis Novak earned one of the biggest wins of his career, upsetting world number 17 Fabio Fognini 6-3, 6-2.

It sent the tie to a deciding doubles with Thiem returning alongside Novak only to crash again, losing 6-1, 6-4 to Berrettini and Fognini.

Australian Open champion Novak Djokovic got his season off to a perfect start with a battling win over hot-shot Denis Shapovalov in the ATP Cup Tuesday, but world number three Dominic Thiem crashed to defeat.

Australian Open champion Novak Djokovic got his season off to a perfect start with a battling win over hot-shot Denis Shapovalov in the ATP Cup Tuesday, but world number three Dominic Thiem crashed to defeat. The Serbian world number one, who will be chasing a ninth Australian Open crown when the first Grand Slam of the year begins on Monday, was pushed hard before coming through 7-5, 7-5 against the Canadian on Rod Laver Arena Djokovic showed no signs of being hindered by a nasty blister on his racquet hand that troubled him at an Adelaide exhibition last week and returned 30 minutes later alongside Filip Frajinovic to play the decisive doubles rubber. The pair beat Shapovalov and Milos Raonic 7-5, 7-6 (7/4) as defending champions Serbia took the tie against Canada 2-1 in Group A. "It was a great opening of the season. Playing Shapo is always a great challenge on hardcourts, he is such a dynamic, explosive player," said Djokovic, who was fired up by playing in front of a smattering of noisy Serbian fans. "I thought we both played on a pretty high level, so I'm really pleased with the way I started the season. "This is a great competition," added Djokovic, who won all eight matches he contested en route to the trophy last year. "We need more competitions where we represent a team, represent our country." Serbia beat Rafael Nadal's Spain in the final of the inaugural and hugely popular tournament last year in Sydney -- launched as a rival to the Davis Cup. It has been slimmed down from 24 teams to 12 this year due to the coronavirus with all matches at Melbourne Park over five days with US$7.5 million at stake, rather than the multi-city format employed in 2020. Spain face a tough opening tie later Tuesday against hosts Australia, with Nadal up against fast-improving Alex de Minaur. On a cool day, big-serving Raonic got Canada off to a blistering start, crushing Dusan Lajovic 6-3, 6-4 in just 79 minutes to give his team a 1-0 lead, with the former world number three, now ranked 15, dropping just eight points on serve while sending down 11 aces. It was left to Djokovic to level the tie before clinching the doubles rubber. The Alexander Zverev-led Germany are also in Group A and play Wednesday. - Thiem tumbles - While Djokovic tasted victory, US Open champion Thiem, who lost to the Serb in a gripping Australian Open final last year, got his season off to a disappointing start. He slumped 6-2, 6-4 to Italian world number 10 Matteo Berrettini who never allowed the Austrian to get going with his big-swinging game. "I'm very happy obviously for myself, but in this competition we're playing for a team, so it's really nice," Berrettini said. "I'm really happy with my performance. "Playing for your country is something special." Berrettini was under pressure after Austria took the lead in their Group C clash when 100th-ranked Dennis Novak earned one of the biggest wins of his career, upsetting world number 17 Fabio Fognini 6-3, 6-2. It sent the tie to a deciding doubles with Thiem returning alongside Novak only to crash again, losing 6-1, 6-4 to Berrettini and Fognini.

Fired-up Djokovic makes perfect start but Thiem slumps in ATP Cup

World number one Novak Djokovic pulled out of an Adelaide exhibition because of a blistered hand on Friday before appearing on court to play a set after all, helping his compatriot Filip Krajinovic beat Jannik Sinner.

Djokovic was scheduled to kick off the "Day at the Drive" event in front of a crowd of 4,000 at Adelaide's Memorial Drive Tennis Club but pulled out minutes before he was due on court and was replaced by Krajinovic.

After his practice partner had won the first set, however, Djokovic bounded into the arena and proceeded to wrap up a 6-3 6-3 win over the Italian teenager.

"I'm sorry that I didn't step in on the court from the beginning," said Djokovic, who was celebrating his first day of freedom after 14 days in quarantine.

"I had to do some treatment with my physio, I wasn't feeling my best for the last two days and I didn't know how I was going to react."

Djokovic looked to be largely unhindered by the nasty-looking blister on the palm of his right hand.

"It's not easy but it's part of what we do, we're professional athletes, we learn over the years to play with the pain," he added.

"It's just a case of whether that pain is bearable or not. Obviously, coming off a hard training block and having the ATP Cup and Australian Open coming up you don't want to risk it too much."

Djokovic and Krajinovic will join forces again in the Serbia team defending the ATP Cup in Melbourne next week before the former launches his bid for a ninth Australian Open title on Feb. 8.

Serena Williams beat Naomi Osaka 6-2 2-6 (10-7) in a 'super breaker' in the second match with both players united in their excitement at playing in front of fans.

"We haven't played in front of a crowd in over a year so it's been a really long time," said Williams, who has been isolating with her 3-year-old daughter.

"We were so happy just to be here. Now it's worth it."

Rafa Nadal, Dominic Thiem and Simona Halep are all scheduled to play later matches after also coming out of quarantine. Women's world number one Ash Barty takes on Halep in the final match of the day.

World number one Novak Djokovic pulled out of an Adelaide exhibition because of a blistered hand on Friday before appearing on court to play a set after all, helping his compatriot Filip Krajinovic beat Jannik Sinner.

World number one Novak Djokovic pulled out of an Adelaide exhibition because of a blistered hand on Friday before appearing on court to play a set after all, helping his compatriot Filip Krajinovic beat Jannik Sinner. Djokovic was scheduled to kick off the "Day at the Drive" event in front of a crowd of 4,000 at Adelaide's Memorial Drive Tennis Club but pulled out minutes before he was due on court and was replaced by Krajinovic. After his practice partner had won the first set, however, Djokovic bounded into the arena and proceeded to wrap up a 6-3 6-3 win over the Italian teenager. "I'm sorry that I didn't step in on the court from the beginning," said Djokovic, who was celebrating his first day of freedom after 14 days in quarantine. "I had to do some treatment with my physio, I wasn't feeling my best for the last two days and I didn't know how I was going to react." Djokovic looked to be largely unhindered by the nasty-looking blister on the palm of his right hand. "It's not easy but it's part of what we do, we're professional athletes, we learn over the years to play with the pain," he added. "It's just a case of whether that pain is bearable or not. Obviously, coming off a hard training block and having the ATP Cup and Australian Open coming up you don't want to risk it too much." Djokovic and Krajinovic will join forces again in the Serbia team defending the ATP Cup in Melbourne next week before the former launches his bid for a ninth Australian Open title on Feb. 8. Serena Williams beat Naomi Osaka 6-2 2-6 (10-7) in a 'super breaker' in the second match with both players united in their excitement at playing in front of fans. "We haven't played in front of a crowd in over a year so it's been a really long time," said Williams, who has been isolating with her 3-year-old daughter. "We were so happy just to be here. Now it's worth it." Rafa Nadal, Dominic Thiem and Simona Halep are all scheduled to play later matches after also coming out of quarantine. Women's world number one Ash Barty takes on Halep in the final match of the day.

Out then in, Djokovic plays a set in Adelaide exhibition

Rafael Nadal has taken a sly dig at world number one Novak Djokovic following his requests for quarantined players for the Australian Open 2021 as the Spaniard said that not everyone felt the need to "advertise" how they were trying to help "others".&nbsp;

The Serbian ace gave a list of suggestions to Tennis Australia last week on behalf of 72 players, who were unable to leave their hotel rooms in Melbourne after COVID-19 cases were detected on their planes to Australia. Reportedly, the list included shifting players into private houses with tennis courts and providing them with better meals.&nbsp;

The requests by Djokovic provoked a backlash as Australian media portrayed players as selfish while fellow tennis star Nick Kyrgios termed the Serb as a "tool".&nbsp;

Later, Djokovic published and open later to&nbsp;say his "good intentions for my fellow competitors in Melbourne have been misconstrued".&nbsp;

ÁLSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/florida-offers-to-host-olympics-if-tokyo-backs-out-359423" hreflang="en">Florida offers to host Olympics if Tokyo backs out</a>

"We all try to help each other," Spanish great Nadal told ESPN Tuesday from Adelaide, where he and Djokovic are quarantining ahead of the year's opening Grand Slam in Melbourne on February 8.&nbsp;

"Some need to make public everything they do to help others," he added, in remarks widely seen as referring to Djokovic. "Others... do it in a more private way without having to publish or advertise everything we're doing."&nbsp;

While most of the players are still undergoing a mandatory 14-day quarantine period in Melbourne, Nadal, Djokovic and a few other superstars including Serena Williams and Naomi Osaka were taken to Adelaide where they are due to play an exhibition on Friday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-they-wont-they-key-questions-for-troubled-tokyo-olympics-359408" hreflang="en">Will they, won't they? Key questions for troubled Tokyo Olympics</a>

While it sparked takes on preferential&nbsp;treatment, Nadal admitted it had been smoother sailing.&nbsp;

"In Adelaide, conditions have been better than most players in Melbourne," he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"But there are players in Melbourne who have larger rooms where they can develop physical activities, others have smaller rooms and can't have contact with their coach and their physical trainer.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Where's the line? It's an ethical issue. Everyone has their own opinion and they are all respectable."&nbsp;

Australian Open is set to commence from February 8.&nbsp;

Rafael Nadal has taken a sly dig at world number one Novak Djokovic following his requests for quarantined players for the Australian Open 2021 as the Spaniard said that not everyone felt the need to "advertise" how they were trying to help "others".

Rafael Nadal has taken a sly dig at world number one Novak Djokovic following his requests for quarantined players for the Australian Open 2021 as the Spaniard said that not everyone felt the need to "advertise" how they were trying to help "others". The Serbian ace gave a list of suggestions to Tennis Australia last week on behalf of 72 players, who were unable to leave their hotel rooms in Melbourne after COVID-19 cases were detected on their planes to Australia. Reportedly, the list included shifting players into private houses with tennis courts and providing them with better meals. The requests by Djokovic provoked a backlash as Australian media portrayed players as selfish while fellow tennis star Nick Kyrgios termed the Serb as a "tool". Later, Djokovic published and open later to say his "good intentions for my fellow competitors in Melbourne have been misconstrued". ÁLSO READ: Florida offers to host Olympics if Tokyo backs out "We all try to help each other," Spanish great Nadal told ESPN Tuesday from Adelaide, where he and Djokovic are quarantining ahead of the year's opening Grand Slam in Melbourne on February 8. "Some need to make public everything they do to help others," he added, in remarks widely seen as referring to Djokovic. "Others... do it in a more private way without having to publish or advertise everything we're doing." While most of the players are still undergoing a mandatory 14-day quarantine period in Melbourne, Nadal, Djokovic and a few other superstars including Serena Williams and Naomi Osaka were taken to Adelaide where they are due to play an exhibition on Friday. ALSO READ: Will they, won't they? Key questions for troubled Tokyo Olympics While it sparked takes on preferential treatment, Nadal admitted it had been smoother sailing. "In Adelaide, conditions have been better than most players in Melbourne," he said. "But there are players in Melbourne who have larger rooms where they can develop physical activities, others have smaller rooms and can't have contact with their coach and their physical trainer. "Where's the line? It's an ethical issue. Everyone has their own opinion and they are all respectable." Australian Open is set to commence from February 8.

Australian Open: Rafael Nadal takes sly dig at Novak Djokovic over quarantine complaints

Novak Djokovic on Wednesday lashed out at the criticism of his letter to Australian Open chief Craig Tiley in which the Serb suggested easing of COVID-19 quarantine restriction as&nbsp;the world number one tennis star said his intentions were "misconstrued”.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A total of 72 players have been confined to their hotel rooms for 14 days and are unable to train for the Grand Slam which is scheduled to be held from February 8-21. The move to quarantine the players come after passengers on three charter flights&nbsp;carrying&nbsp;them&nbsp;to Melbourne tested positive for coronavirus.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Djokovic, according to reports, asked Tiley for reduced isolation periods while moving players in hard quarantine to&nbsp;"private houses with tennis courts". The development received staunch criticism from Australians.&nbsp;

However, Tiley confirmed that they were suggestions and not demands by Djokovic.&nbsp;

"My good intentions for my fellow competitors in Melbourne have been misconstrued as being selfish, difficult and ungrateful,"&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;who is isolating in Adelaide along with other top players, said in a lengthy statement.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/two-players-test-positive-in-new-australian-open-blow-357802" hreflang="en">Two players test positive in new Australian Open blow</a>&nbsp;

"This couldn't be farther from the truth.&nbsp;

"... at times when I see the aftermath of things, I do tend to ask myself if I should just sit back and enjoy my benefits instead of paying attention to other people's struggles."&nbsp;

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Tennis coach Daniel&nbsp;Vallverdy&nbsp;told Reuters that players in hard quarantine should get prime practice times and matches scheduled in cooler hours of the matchday.&nbsp;

Former Australian tennis player Sam Groth had accused Djokovic's letter as a&nbsp;"selfish political move" while&nbsp;Aussie tennis star&nbsp;Nick Kyrgios called the Serbian a "tool".&nbsp;

&nbsp;"I've earned my privileges the hard way... it is very difficult for me to be a mere onlooker knowing how much every help, gesture, and good word mattered to me when I was small and insignificant in the world pecking order,"&nbsp;the Serbian ace&nbsp;said.&nbsp;

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"Hence, I use my position of privilege to be of service as much as I can where and when needed."&nbsp;

&nbsp;Djokovic went on to express his gratitude towards the Australian government and Australian Open&nbsp;organisers&nbsp;to allow the players to participate amid the pandemic.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Things in the media escalated and there was a general impression that the players (including myself) are ungrateful, weak and selfish because of their unpleasant feelings in quarantine," he added.&nbsp;

"I am very sorry that it has come to that because I do know how grateful many are. We all came to Australia to compete. Not being able to train and prepare before the tournament starts is really not easy.&nbsp;

"None of us ever questioned 14 days of quarantine despite what is being said by media outlets."&nbsp;

Novak Djokovic on Wednesday lashed out at the criticism of his letter to Australian Open chief Craig Tiley in which the Serb suggested easing of COVID-19 quarantine restriction as the world number one tennis star said his intentions were "misconstrued”.

Novak Djokovic on Wednesday lashed out at the criticism of his letter to Australian Open chief Craig Tiley in which the Serb suggested easing of COVID-19 quarantine restriction as the world number one tennis star said his intentions were "misconstrued”. A total of 72 players have been confined to their hotel rooms for 14 days and are unable to train for the Grand Slam which is scheduled to be held from February 8-21. The move to quarantine the players come after passengers on three charter flights carrying them to Melbourne tested positive for coronavirus. Djokovic, according to reports, asked Tiley for reduced isolation periods while moving players in hard quarantine to "private houses with tennis courts". The development received staunch criticism from Australians. However, Tiley confirmed that they were suggestions and not demands by Djokovic. "My good intentions for my fellow competitors in Melbourne have been misconstrued as being selfish, difficult and ungrateful," Djokovic who is isolating in Adelaide along with other top players, said in a lengthy statement. ALSO READ: Two players test positive in new Australian Open blow "This couldn't be farther from the truth. "... at times when I see the aftermath of things, I do tend to ask myself if I should just sit back and enjoy my benefits instead of paying attention to other people's struggles." pic.twitter.com/YbGDYWL7Yf — Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) January 20, 2021 × Tennis coach Daniel Vallverdy told Reuters that players in hard quarantine should get prime practice times and matches scheduled in cooler hours of the matchday. Former Australian tennis player Sam Groth had accused Djokovic's letter as a "selfish political move" while Aussie tennis star Nick Kyrgios called the Serbian a "tool". "I've earned my privileges the hard way... it is very difficult for me to be a mere onlooker knowing how much every help, gesture, and good word mattered to me when I was small and insignificant in the world pecking order," the Serbian ace said. ALSO READ: From Hamilton to Ronaldo: Athletes who tested positive for COVID-19 in 2020 "Hence, I use my position of privilege to be of service as much as I can where and when needed." Djokovic went on to express his gratitude towards the Australian government and Australian Open organisers to allow the players to participate amid the pandemic. "Things in the media escalated and there was a general impression that the players (including myself) are ungrateful, weak and selfish because of their unpleasant feelings in quarantine," he added. "I am very sorry that it has come to that because I do know how grateful many are. We all came to Australia to compete. Not being able to train and prepare before the tournament starts is really not easy. "None of us ever questioned 14 days of quarantine despite what is being said by media outlets."

Novak Djokovic lashes out at critics over Australian Open quarantine stance

Australia's Nick Kyrgios dismissed world number one Novak Djokovic as a "tool" as a backlash grew against tennis players flown in for the Australian Open during a raging pandemic.

Kyrgios joined a wave of criticism of the Serb for reportedly issuing a list of demands for quarantined players who have arrived in Melbourne and Adelaide on chartered flights.

The arrival of more than 1,000 players and staff, including four people who tested positive, has raised hackles in a country which is largely coronavirus-free, and especially in Melbourne which came out of a four-month lockdown in October.

"Djokovic is a tool," Kyrgios tweeted, after the Serb led a chorus of player complaints about conditions in locked-down hotel rooms.&nbsp;

At least 72 players have been barred from leaving their rooms for two weeks after coronavirus cases were detected on their charter flights into the country.&nbsp;

Others are allowed out of their rooms for up to five hours a day to train under strictly-controlled conditions.

The 33-year-old Serb and reigning Australian Open champion is among several stars -- others include Serena Williams, Naomi Osaka and Rafael Nadal -- who were allowed to fly into Adelaide where they enjoy better facilities such as balconies on their hotel rooms, unlike the majority in Melbourne, the Australian Open's host city.

But Djokovic reportedly issued a list of demands in a letter to Tennis Australia that included moving quarantined players into private homes with tennis courts and getting them better meals.&nbsp;

Australian media zeroed in on the demands, portraying them as petulant and selfish, while showing images of Djokovic not wearing a mask in a players' minibus, which would be required in most taxis and rideshares in Australia.

Victoria Premier Daniel Andrews smashed back Djokovic's demands. "There's no special treatment here. Because the virus doesn't treat you specially, so neither do we," he said on Monday.

In Australia many are also questioning why the players and staff were flown in for the event, when tens of thousands of Australians remain stranded overseas.

Meanwhile Kyrgios also took aim at fellow Australian player Bernard Tomic's girlfriend, Vanessa Sierra, after she complained in an online video about cold food and having to wash her own hair in quarantine.

"I don't mind Bernie but his Mrs obviously has no perspective, ridiculous scenes," Kyrgios said on Twitter.

Djokovic's actions around the tournament are being closely watched, in part due to his seeming nonchalance about the virus in the past.&nbsp;

Last year, the 17-time major champion organised a series of exhibition events in the Balkans at which social distancing was minimal.

He and several other players later tested positive for the virus, as well as his wife Jelena.

Despite the controversies, the Australian Open is due to begin in Melbourne on February 8, having already been delayed three weeks.

Australia's Nick Kyrgios dismissed world number one Novak Djokovic as a "tool" as a backlash grew against tennis players flown in for the Australian Open during a raging pandemic.

Australia's Nick Kyrgios dismissed world number one Novak Djokovic as a "tool" as a backlash grew against tennis players flown in for the Australian Open during a raging pandemic. Kyrgios joined a wave of criticism of the Serb for reportedly issuing a list of demands for quarantined players who have arrived in Melbourne and Adelaide on chartered flights. The arrival of more than 1,000 players and staff, including four people who tested positive, has raised hackles in a country which is largely coronavirus-free, and especially in Melbourne which came out of a four-month lockdown in October. "Djokovic is a tool," Kyrgios tweeted, after the Serb led a chorus of player complaints about conditions in locked-down hotel rooms. At least 72 players have been barred from leaving their rooms for two weeks after coronavirus cases were detected on their charter flights into the country. Others are allowed out of their rooms for up to five hours a day to train under strictly-controlled conditions. The 33-year-old Serb and reigning Australian Open champion is among several stars -- others include Serena Williams, Naomi Osaka and Rafael Nadal -- who were allowed to fly into Adelaide where they enjoy better facilities such as balconies on their hotel rooms, unlike the majority in Melbourne, the Australian Open's host city. But Djokovic reportedly issued a list of demands in a letter to Tennis Australia that included moving quarantined players into private homes with tennis courts and getting them better meals. Australian media zeroed in on the demands, portraying them as petulant and selfish, while showing images of Djokovic not wearing a mask in a players' minibus, which would be required in most taxis and rideshares in Australia. Victoria Premier Daniel Andrews smashed back Djokovic's demands. "There's no special treatment here. Because the virus doesn't treat you specially, so neither do we," he said on Monday. In Australia many are also questioning why the players and staff were flown in for the event, when tens of thousands of Australians remain stranded overseas. Meanwhile Kyrgios also took aim at fellow Australian player Bernard Tomic's girlfriend, Vanessa Sierra, after she complained in an online video about cold food and having to wash her own hair in quarantine. "I don't mind Bernie but his Mrs obviously has no perspective, ridiculous scenes," Kyrgios said on Twitter. Djokovic's actions around the tournament are being closely watched, in part due to his seeming nonchalance about the virus in the past. Last year, the 17-time major champion organised a series of exhibition events in the Balkans at which social distancing was minimal. He and several other players later tested positive for the virus, as well as his wife Jelena. Despite the controversies, the Australian Open is due to begin in Melbourne on February 8, having already been delayed three weeks.

Kyrgios slams 'tool' Djokovic as Australian Open tensions run high

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