Novak Djokovic eased past Lorenzo Musetti on his return to the court in Dubai
(Picture: Getty Images)Novak Djokovic said the reception he received on his tennis comeback “exceeded his best expectations” after he made a winning return against Lorenzo Musetti yesterday.
The world No1 won with ease in his first match since being deported from Australia last month, breezing past Musetti 6-3, 6-3 in Dubai.
After a near-three-month absence from the tour and all the controversy off the court over his vaccination status, Djokovic was given a rapturous reception last night. “I was equally excited and nervous like before any other match after a long break,” Djokovic said.
“The fans that showed up tonight really cheered me on. They exceeded my best expectations, in terms of the atmosphere.”
Another of those happy to have Djokovic back was Andy Murray, who battled past Australian qualifier Christopher O’Connell 6-7, 6-3, 7-5 in three hours.
Murray said it would be “easier” for Djokovic if he were to get vaccinated but said: “I don’t think it’s great for tennis if our best player is not competing in the major events.”
