Novak Djokovic says teaming up with Nick Kyrgios within the Brisbane Worldwide goes to be a enjoyable expertise as he prepares for the Australian Open.
The duo locked horns prior to now when Kyrgios labelled Djokovic “boneheaded” and a “tool” however they’ve since developed a detailed friendship after the most recent of their three conferences, within the 2022 Wimbledon closing.
“It’s going to be fun,” stated Djokovic, who’s utilizing the match to gear up for a tilt at a record-extending eleventh Australian Open trophy.
“We texted about it and we spoke earlier in Wimbledon (this year) about playing together when he’s back on tour. We’ve got the first chance right away in the first week of the season.”
Djokovic will face a house problem in his opening match when the 37-year-old faces Australia’s Rinky Hijikata within the first spherical on Monday.
High-seeded Djokovic, now ranked No 7 on the planet, has not competed since reaching the Shanghai Masters closing in October.
The Paris Olympic gold medallist and 24-time Grand Slam champion is taking part in in Brisbane for the primary time since 2009.
Kyrgios, who has performed just one singles tour match within the final two years on account of knee, foot and wrist accidents, will tackle France’s Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard in singles, stated: “It’s good to be back. I honestly never thought I’d be back playing at this level. Even entering an event like this, preparing, doing all the right things.
“I am actually excited to simply go on the market and play, simply play tennis. I noticed Novak within the fitness center, taking part in doubles with him, quite a bit to be enthusiastic about that I can get on the market and compete once more.”
The Brisbane event main draw will run from Sunday to January 5 – live on Sky Sports Tennis – before the Australian Open begins on January 12.
Raducanu set for action in Auckland
Emma Raducanu will start her season with a match towards Robin Montgomery
The brand new tennis season is already beneath method, with the United Cup group occasion starting on Friday.
Nice Britain, who’re weakened by the absence of Jack Draper via harm, start their marketing campaign towards Argentina in Sydney on Monday earlier than going through hosts Australia on Wednesday.
That might pit Katie Boulter towards fiancee Alex De Minaur, with the pair having introduced their engagement final week.
“Obviously some incredible news from our side, but I think we kind of wanted it to die down a little bit before matches started,” stated Boulter of the timing.
“My private life is out in the public a little bit at the moment. But, in terms of the stuff that I’m doing on the court, I’ll be doing the best I can every single day to stay in my own little bubble.”
Billy Harris has taken Draper’s place, with the British No 1 going through a race towards time to be match for the Australian Open due to a hip drawback.
Emma Raducanu is the sixth seed on the ASB Basic in Auckland and can start her season with a match towards world No 117 Robin Montgomery, whereas Cameron Norrie takes on one other American, Learner Tien, on the Hong Kong Open.
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