January 2, (THEWILL) – After a year away from Australian courts, Novak Djokovic returned to the Adelaide International on Monday to the cheers of excited fans.
As THEWILL covered extensively, the 21-time major winner had been deported from Australia last year for arriving unvaccinated against COVID-19, but it was clear that the fans were uninterested in that furore as supporters flocked to the stadium to welcome him back.
However, Djokovic’s return to the court was not all smooth sailing, as he and doubles partner Vasek Pospisil fell to Tomislav Brkic and Gonzalo Escobar in a close match, losing 4-6 6-3 (10-5). Still, the loss nonetheless, Djokovic remained in good spirits, taking the defeat in stride as he looked ahead to his singles campaign.
The Serbian star will face Constant Lestienne on Tuesday as he builds up to the Australian Open, where he is looking to secure a record-extending 10th title Down Under when the 2023 calendar of Grand Slams kickoff with the traditional first Open of the year.
Whether Djokovic can overcome his doubles defeat and come out on top in the singles bracket will worry the minds of many of his supporters. Still, one certainty, from the Doubles game at Adelaide International, was that Australian tennis fans are pleased to see him back on the court in their country.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
