Former world number one Mats Wilander has ruled that Novak Djokovic can “definitely” win the 2025 Australian Open after the Serb’s first-round win against Nishesh Basavareddy.
Djokovic overcame Basavareddy, a 19-year-old American rising star competing as a wildcard, 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 at Rod Laver Arena.
The 37-year-old Serbian, who is seeking a record 11th Australian Open crown and 25th major, was impressed by the world No.107.
“He was a better player for a set and a half,” Djokovic admitted in his on-court interview. “He deserved every ovation he got when he left the court.
“To be honest, I never saw him play until three or four days ago. I didn’t know much about him. These matchups are always tricky when you’re playing someone who has nothing to lose.
“First ever match for him in a Slam. He pleasantly surprised me with all his shots and fighting spirit towards the end. I wish him all the best for the rest of his career.”
Talking further Eurosports coverage following Djokovic’s victory, Swedish tennis legend Wilander discussed the Serb’s display and analyzed his title credentials.
“It’s a Novak who can go a long way, obviously he has to play a lot better than he did in the first set and a half,” said the seven-time Grand Slam champion. “But I think he was also a little surprised.
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“But with someone like him, it’s not important at all to play well, it’s just important to get through and not spend four or five hours on the court. And at the end he served brilliantly, he moved brilliantly. He never really looked threatened out and he never looked tired.
“So I think it’s a Novak Djokovic who can win the tournament, definitely. But, yeah, it’s dangerous to lose the first set against the better players, that’s for sure. So he has to be a little bit sharper maybe early on. But when you don’t have played someone, it’s not that easy. He looks good to me.”
Djokovic also admitted it was “weird” to have Andy Murray in his coaching box for the first time.
“It was a bit of a strange experience to have him on court in my box,” said the world number 7.
“We played for over 20 years against each other at the highest level. Great to have him on the same side of the net. He gave me good advice mid-match.
“It’s good that we have an opportunity now to have allowed coaching on the same side. It’s a completely different angle when you look from the side.
“He’s done really well. It’s been a nice experience. Hopefully we don’t end here.”
