Mon Jan 13 20:37:48 UTC 2025: ## Djokovic Begins Australian Open Bid With Hard-Fought Win, Murray Coaching Debut a Success
**Melbourne, Australia** – Novak Djokovic kicked off his Australian Open campaign with a victory, overcoming a shaky start to defeat 19-year-old American Nishesh Basavareddy 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 on Monday. The win marks the beginning of Djokovic’s quest for a record 25th Grand Slam title and an 11th Australian Open crown, a feat that would also make him the oldest man to win a men’s singles Grand Slam.
This match was particularly notable as it marked the official coaching debut of former rival Andy Murray. Djokovic praised the experience, stating, “It was a bit of a strange experience to have him court side… We played for over 20 years against each other… He gave me great advice mid-match.” Murray, a two-time Olympic gold medalist, retired from playing in August 2024 and is aiming for his first coaching title.
Djokovic, the reigning Olympic champion, will face Portugal’s Jaime Faria in the second round. The Serbian superstar expressed his hope for a continued successful partnership with Murray, saying, “Hopefully we don’t stop here.”
First Piper 