Australian Open 2025: Novak Djokovic averts Nishesh Basaraveddy test in Andy Murray's first coaching assignment

Not sparkling by any means but Novak Djokovic has averted the potential shock factor that Nishesh Basaraveddy was handed down initially in a four set win 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 to reach the second round of the Australian Open.

Djokovic was in crisis mode to start the tie as the young American nicked a break to go 4-3 up and sealed the opener 6-4 as the ten time champion had to find something and it wasn't coming initially. He went 0/4 on break points to begin the second as the American stayed resolute until Djokovic broke for 5-3 finally.

This saw Basaraveddy fall apart though of sorts. He started to cramp and looked to be prey for Djokovic like so many have been when in a winning position. The Serbian took the set 6-3. He broke to start the third and this proved vital as he took the next set 6-4 to stamp his authority and lead for the first time. He roared and Andy Murray in his new position in the new coaching booths on court applauded.

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Murray is the extra factor now to Djokovic's armoury and of course the subject of a lot of camera panning and also chatter. But he didn't sign autographs yesterday and is trying to be what he is a coach. Of course though coaching one of your rivals is going to be an interesting almost circus like aspect to the game.

But he will have been happy with his pupil's first effort. He broke twice to begin what was the final set going 1-0 up and 4-1 ahead. The second time was kind of game over for the American who went 40-30 up and let it slip and Djokovic roared back. He held emphatically. His opponent stopped him claiming victory at 5-1 but he couldn't hold on for long as Djokovic reigned supreme.

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