Mon Jan 13 18:10:05 UTC 2025: ## Djokovic Survives First-Round Scare at Australian Open
**Melbourne, Australia –** Novak Djokovic, aiming for his 11th Australian Open title, overcame a spirited challenge from American teenager Nishesh Basavareddy in a thrilling four-set victory on Monday. The Serbian star, despite winning 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 6-2, found himself unexpectedly rattled early in the match by the Grand Slam debutant.
Basavareddy, coached by former pro Paul Goldstein (who Djokovic last lost to in the first round of a Grand Slam in 2006), played aggressively, mixing powerful shots with deft drop shots, and captivating the Rod Laver Arena crowd. He took the first set, showcasing impressive skill and resilience against the seven-time Australian Open champion. Djokovic, visibly struggling at times, only managed his first break point in the eighth game of the second set, finally levelling the match as Basavareddy began to suffer from cramping.
The experienced Djokovic regained his composure in the latter half of the match, ultimately overpowering the exhausted Basavareddy in the third and fourth sets. While praising his opponent’s performance, Djokovic acknowledged the difficulty of facing a player with nothing to lose. “In the end it was great, but he was the better player for the first set and a half and he deserved every bit of applause he got as he left the court,” Djokovic said.
Djokovic will next face 21-year-old Portuguese player Jaime Faria in the second round as he continues his pursuit of a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title.
First Piper 