Novak Djokovic began his season with straight-set wins but Nick Kyrgios’ return to singles action did not go according to his plans at the Brisbane International on Tuesday.
Djokovic tamed local favourite Rinky Hijikata 6-3, 6-3 in what was the top-seeded Serbian’s first tour-level singles match since October.
A day after his doubles victory alongside Kyrgios, Djokovic was precise with his serve and groundstrokes as he outclassed Hijikata and greeted the applauding audience with a gesture of playing the violin.
He will meet two-time Australian Open quarterfinalist Gael Monfils in the second round.
Earlier, Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard fired 36 aces to beat Kyrgios 7-6(2) 6-7(4) 7-6(3) in a battle of big servers at the Pat Rafter Arena.
