Melbourne: Novak Djokovic made a solid start to his Australian Open campaign with a 4-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-1 victory over American Nishesh Basavareddy in the first round.

Djokovic, a ten-time champion in Melbourne, was joined by new coach Andy Murray, who provided on-court advice after the third set. Djokovic, who was eliminated in the semi-finals last year by eventual champion Jannik Sinner, fired 23 aces, including one on match point, to seal his spot in the second round. After the match, he praised Basavareddy for his performance, acknowledging that the young American played better for a set and a half. Djokovic, who has won 24 Grand Slam titles, was impressed by the challenge Basavareddy posed despite not being familiar with his game until just a few days ago.