Djokovic defeated by Zverev on World Tennis League debut in Dubai

World No 5 Novak Djokovic made his World Tennis League debut on Tuesday in Dubai but could not lead his Falcons team to victory as he lost his singles match 6-3, 6-4 to Alexander Zverev.

In a format where every game counts across all three matches played, the Hawks defeated the Falcons 35-27, thanks to wins from Elena Rybakina and Zverev in their respective singles clashes.

Djokovic, who arrived late in Dubai after attending the World Cup final in Qatar on Sunday, broke back early in the second set after trailing by a set and a break but could not halt Zverev, who has recovered from an ankle injury that has sidelined him since Roland Garros last June.

“The atmosphere was amazing, I’ve missed being on court, I’ve missed playing in front of this kind of crowd, in these stadiums,” said Zverev on court.

“I knew I had to play the best tennis I’ve played in the last seven months, which is not that difficult, but I’m happy to get my first win in a long time.”

Also back from injury is Russia’s Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova, who made a surprise appearance on Tuesday, replacing Anett Kontaveit on the Hawks roster. The former Roland Garros runner-up had an extended break from competition to recover from a knee problem and hasn’t played a match on tour since Rome last May.

Alexander Zverev celebrates victory against Novak Djokovic. Getty

In mixed doubles, Pavlyuchenkova and ex-US Open champion Dominic Thiem fell to Falcons duo Grigor Dimitrov and Paula Badosa 5-7, 6-3, 10-4.

Djokovic was on the Falcons bench throughout the encounter, offering all sorts of support, from giving his teammates tips to offering them snacks.

“We’re having fun, enjoying, and at the same time competing. It’s a good opportunity for us, it’s an amazing chance to