Djokovic says happy with 'successful start' in Dubai Open despite 'error-filled' game

Serbian tennis ace Novak Djokovic has said that although his game is not where he wants it to be, he is happy with his successful start following his straight-sets win over Uzbekistan's Denis Istomen in the Dubai Open on Tuesday.

The seven-time Grand Slam winner beat the World No.53 6-3, 6-3 and earned an ideal competitive rehabilitation after the loss of his Australian Open title to Swiss star Stanislas Wawrinka in the semi-finals at Melbourne.

According to Sport24, the outcome is encouraging for the world number two to feel he can win his fifth title here and equal the record of Swiss ace Roger Federer, whom he should meet in Friday's semi-finals.

Djokovic also said that the 'food for the soul' that he took from childhood haunts during a five-week break is feeding his self-belief, which helped him towards the win

Djokovic further said that even though it is taking a toll on his body as he has not competed for long, however, he is looking forward to playing more games as he loves it on the court.

Djokovic next plays Roberto Bautista Agut, the world number 51 from Spain, while Federer will take on Radek Stepanek, the former top ten player from the Czech republic who has won deciding matches in Davis Cup finals twice, the report added.