"I couldn’t ask for a better start": Djokovic moved by reception on return to Australian Open

Novak Djokovic started really well in the Australian Open beating his opponent fairly easily in three sets to a packed Rod Laver Arena which made him happy.

Despite the match starting very late and pretty much ending after midnight, Djokovic was supported by a packed Rod Laver Arena. The reception in Melbourne was something he was curious about but also a bit worried about. It turned out to be amazing which he made sure to mention after the match:

“Unbelievable atmosphere, thank you so much for staying. Thank you for giving me such a welcoming reception I could only dream of. I feel very happy that I’m back in Australia and back on this court. I couldn’t ask for a better start to the tournament.”

Djokovic looked comfortable as ever on the court which gave him much joy over the past few years. He spoke about the familiarity with the court as being important:

“I guess the more you win on a certain court, the more confident and comfortable you feel every next time you step on it. That’s probably one of the reasons. I’ve been fortunate to win a lot of matches on this court, particularly in the night sessions. If I had to choose one court and conditions, it would be night session on Rod Laver Arena, all night long.”

Djokovic brought part of his family down under for the first time in 15 years hoping they bring him the same luck they brought him in 2008:

“My parents and my brother are here after 15 years. They’ve were last here when I won in 2008, my first Slam, so hopefully they bring me luck once again.”