The king of Melbourne Park, Novak Djokovic, launched his campaign for an 11th Australian Open title with a gritty first-round win over 19-year-old Nishesh Basavareddy. In a match that lasted just under three hours, Djokovic recovered from a shaky start to secure a 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 victory and notch his 95th win at the year’s first Grand Slam.
The showdown at Rod Laver Arena wasn’t the routine opener many anticipated. Basavareddy, making his Grand Slam debut, stunned the crowd by taking the opening set off the 24-time Grand Slam champion. It was a fearless display by the American teenager, who came close to becoming the first teenager ever to defeat Djokovic in a Major.
Basavareddy’s Bold Start Shakes Djokovic
From the outset, Basavareddy showcased his aggressive baseline game, taking risks and refusing to be intimidated by the legend across the net. Djokovic, uncharacteristically flat in the first set, struggled to find his rhythm.
The teenager saved a break point in three separate service games, capitalizing on Djokovic’s unsteady play. A blistering return winner in the seventh game gave Basavareddy the decisive break, and he held his nerve to clinch the opener 6-4 in just under 50 minutes. The crowd erupted in support of the young underdog, sensing a possible upset.
Djokovic Roars Back with Experience
Djokovic, however, showed why he’s the greatest player Melbourne has ever seen. The Serb reset mentally and raised his level in the second set, serving more effectively and dictating points with precision. Basavareddy, meanwhile, began to feel the physical toll of keeping pace with Djokovic.
A crucial error on Basavareddy’s forehand handed Djokovic a break in the eighth game. Djokovic consolidated his lead and sealed the second set 6-3, leveling the match and extinguishing the teenager’s early momentum.
The Turning Point: Djokovic Seizes Control
With the second set in his pocket, Djokovic tightened his grip on the match. Basavareddy faltered early in the third set, double-faulting to hand Djokovic a break in the opening game. From there, Djokovic displayed his trademark consistency, holding serve with ease and forcing errors from his opponent.
Basavareddy fought valiantly, even threatening Djokovic’s serve in the fourth game of the final set, but the Serbian star was unyielding. Djokovic saved a break point and then turned the screws further, breaking Basavareddy at love to secure a commanding 4-1 lead.
Victory Sealed Amid Basavareddy’s Brave Effort
Despite trailing in the fourth set, Basavareddy refused to go quietly. Serving at 1-5 to stay in the match, the teenager saved two match points in an impressive display of grit, earning a deserved ovation from the Melbourne crowd.
Djokovic, though, was relentless. Serving for the match at 5-2, he kept his composure and converted his second match point, securing his place in the second round of the Australian Open for the 18th consecutive time.
What’s Next for Djokovic and Basavareddy?
Djokovic’s ability to adapt and overcome adversity once again reaffirmed his status as the tournament favorite. With his sights set on a record-extending 11th title in Melbourne, Djokovic will look to build on this hard-fought victory as the competition intensifies.
As for Basavareddy, the 19-year-old’s fearless performance against the sport’s ultimate competitor has marked him as one to watch in the years ahead. His debut may have ended in defeat, but his poise and power left an indelible impression.
