World number two Novak Djokovic began his title defence at the Australian Open with an impressive straight-sets victory over Spaniard opponent Fernando Verdasco in the men's singles event here on Tuesday.
The 29-year-old Serbian avoided a potential first-round exit against Verdasco, who knocked out 14-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal in the opening round last year.
Djokovic defended brilliantly at a floodlit Rod Laver Arena to register a comfortable 6-1, 7-6 (7-4), 6-2 win over his Spaniard opponent in the encounter that lasted two hours and 20 mins.
The former World number one will now take on either Uzbekistan's Denis Istomin or Croatia's Ivan Dodig in the second round of the first major of the season.
Disclaimer: No Business Standard Journalist was involved in creation of this content
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors
Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share
Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor
Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements
Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app