Novak Djokovic showed little nerves on his return to Melbourne on Tuesday evening, as he was cheered to a 6-3, 6-4, 6-0 victory over 75th-ranked Roberto Carballes Baena.
Dozens of Serbian flags fluttered around Rod Laver Arena, as Djokovic went about his business with consummate ease.
As he stepped on to court a quick wave of his left hand greeted the crowd, but then it was down to business.
And despite a left hamstring niggle, he was never really troubled.
“I was really hoping to get a good reception and this was more than I hoped for, more than I dreamed of,” Djokovic said.
“After all that happened in the last 12 months people were super nice to me, especially the Serbian community, incredible support, I am very grateful and very happy. To play in that kind of atmosphere helps a lot with the tennis.
“I was really looking forward to the match. I was a bit more nervous before the Kyrgios match a few days ago as that was the first time on Rod Laver Arena in front of a full house.”
