While World No. 1 Djokovic drops a set to Croatian teen qualifier Prizmic in four-hour opener, No. 2 Sabalenka steamrolls Germany’s Seidel 6-0, 6-1
Novak Djokovic returns to Croatia’s Dino Prizmic while Aryna Sabalenka (right) returns to Germany’s Ella Seidelin Melbourne yesterday. Pics/AFP
An error-strewn Novak Djokovic kickstarted his bid for an 11th Australian Open and unprecedented 25th Grand Slam crown in unconvincing fashion on Sunday, dropping a set to “incredible” teenage qualifier Dino Prizmic. On the other hand, women’s champion Aryna Sabalenka steamrolled her way into the second round with a 6-0, 6-1 win over Germany’s Ella Seidel.
ADVERTISEMENT
Djokovic struggled to impose himself on the confident Croat on Rod Laver Arena before finally taming the 18-year-old 6-2, 6-7 (5-7), 6-3, 6-4 after a four-hour marathon. While far from his best, the World No. 1 showed no sign of the right wrist problem that hampered his build-up. “Well, I started off very well for a 36-year-old guy. But, geez, when you think about it, I’m double his age,” Djokovic said.
Also Read: Bolt drives fastest Formula E car indoors
“But credit to him, he had an incredible game plan, he had an answer to everything. I had some good moments and other moments I wish I could have played better.” If Djokovic win the title here again, he will pass Australian Margaret Court’s all-time Slam record and join Court (Australian Open) and Rafael Nadal (French Open) in winning 11 times at a single major.
Victory stretched his record at Melbourne Park to 90-8 but he was troubled by Prizmic’s speed and booming baseline play, which forced many uncharacteristic errors in a match many thought would be a cruise. “He deserves every applause. It’s amazing to see someone so mature for his age. He handled himself on the court incredibly well. This is his moment, honestly. We are going to see a lot of him in the future,” said Djokovic about the Croat who is the current French Open boys’ champion. Moments later, Sabalenka was in a different class, beating Seidel in just 53 minutes. Seidel won only 10 points in a 22-minute first set demolition. The wasn’t any better.
This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
