Novak Djokovic made his singles debut of the season at the Brisbane International. The Serbian champion defeated Rinky Hijikata in two sets and underlined the importance of starting off on the right foot to regain confidence and awareness.

The Serb has decided to participate in an official event before the Australian Open precisely to reach the best shape and get minutes in his legs. In Melbourne, Andy Murray, his new coach, will join the team.

“The expectations are always high when I step on the court. Obviously a victory is a victory. Starting the new season with a success is very important. I think Hijikata deserves a big round of applause for his performance, he was really good. He made me work hard to get the victory today,” Djokovic said in the post-match interview.

The 37-year-old celebrated New Year’s Eve with his family, as he explained in the interview, revealing: “We will definitely celebrate the New Year, we have plans. My family is here and my children are happy to go to sleep later than usual. I wish everyone a happy New Year in advance. It’s a special night. Last year I played a match at the United Cup in Perth just before the New Year. Now I’m here in Brisbane: it’s a tradition that repeats itself every year.”

Djokovic then talked about his new coach Andy Murray, revealing the emotion of having Andy Murray in his team, which will be true from the upcoming Australian Open.

“Andy? He’s skiing with his family right now! He had this trip planned with them. We spoke before the match and we’ll do it again for the next match. I hope he doesn’t get injured before he leaves for Melbourne. It will be very exciting to have him in my box at the Australian Open 2025,” revealed the Serbian champion.