Miomir Kecmanovic hopes to "avenge" compatriot Novak Djokovic at the Australian Open

Serbian Miomir Kecmanovic was slated to face countryman Novak Djokovic in the first round of the ongoing Australian Open, but ended up meeting lucky loser Salvatore Caruso after the defending champion was deported from Australia.

Kecmanovic recorded a 6-4 6-2 6-1 victory over his Italian opponent, and stated after his win that his aim was to avenge the World No.1 and make him proud.

"It was a little bit difficult, but I don’t think it was as difficult as Novak had it the last two weeks,” reflected Kecmanovic. “It was really unfortunate and really terrible what happened to him.

"Even though I’m happy that I was able to win today, I still feel really bad for him and that we didn’t get to play our match."

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The 22-year old said he had spoken with other Serbian players in the draw and they had vowed to honor Djokovic.

"It was hard not to talk about that topic since it was happening right before our matches, especially with me supposed to play him also,” said Kecmanovic at his post-match press conference.

“We said we were going to give everything we have, try to avenge him in a way and make him proud.

“I know he is the best representative, so it is definitely a shame that he is not able to participate and represent Serbia, but we are going to give the best that we can and hopefully make up for it in some way.”

Djokovic has since returned to Serbia and Kecmanovic says he’s been doing his best to stay in touch with his friend and Davis Cup teammate.

“I sent him a few messages also, just to see how he was doing, how he’s handling everything. It wasn’t easy for him, so I know I couldn’t do much,” he said.

The World No.77 next faces American Tommy Paul in the second round, and has made it clear that he's playing not just for himself, but also for Djokovic, who he says he wants to "make proud."

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