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DJOKOVIC AND SABALENKA OPEN 2024 SEASON WITH WINS, KYRGIOS FALLS SHORT IN RETURN

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4 days ago



Djokovic and Sabalenka Open 2024 Season with Wins, Kyrgios Falls Short in Return.

Novak Djokovic and Aryna Sabalenka began their 2024 campaigns with dominant straight-set victories at the Brisbane International on Tuesday, while Nick Kyrgios faced a challenging return to singles action.  

Top-seeded Djokovic defeated local favorite Rinky Hijikata 6-3, 6-3 in his first tour-level singles match since October. The Serbian legend displayed his trademark precision, excelling in his serve and groundstrokes to advance to the second round. Djokovic, who partnered with Kyrgios for a doubles win the previous day, expressed satisfaction with his performance.  

"To start off the new season with a win, it's very important," Djokovic said. He will next face France's Gael Monfils.  

In contrast, Kyrgios’ comeback after wrist surgery didn’t go as planned. The Australian lost to France’s Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard in a tightly contested match that highlighted the Frenchman’s powerful serve. The 21-year-old Mpetshi Perricard struck 36 aces and secured a 7-6(2), 6-7(4), 7-6(3) victory in a clash of big servers at Pat Rafter Arena.  


"It was very exciting to play this one, and I'm very happy to get the win," Mpetshi Perricard said, acknowledging Kyrgios’ strong performance despite his extended layoff. He will next face American fourth seed Frances Tiafoe.  

On the women’s side, world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka showcased her dominance with a commanding 6-4, 6-0 victory over Mexico's Renata Zarazua. The Belarusian fired 23 winners and won 71% of her service points, sending a strong message ahead of the Australian Open.  


"The first match is always a tricky one," Sabalenka admitted. "I’m really happy with the first win of the season."  

In an upset, Armenia’s Elina Avanesyan stunned fourth seed Paula Badosa 6-3, 1-6, 6-2 to advance to the third round, adding intrigue to the women’s draw.  


The Brisbane International continues to deliver thrilling matches as players gear up for the Australian Open later this month.

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