Fans' welcome 'exceeded expectations', says Djokovic after winning return

DUBAI: Novak Djokovic admitted the warm reception he was given by fans in Dubai on Monday (Feb 21) exceeded his expectations as he made a successful return to the tour for the first time since his deportation from Australia.

The world No 1 kicked off his 2022 campaign with a 6-3, 6-3 victory over Italian teenager Lorenzo Musetti, and was greeted by loud cheers from a packed stadium as he commenced his quest for a sixth title in the Emirates in style.

Djokovic was not sure how he would be received in the wake of everything that happened in Australia last month, but stated he "couldn't ask for a better reception" as fans scrambled to take photos with him after the match, chanting "Nole, Nole", to celebrate his victory and his return to action.

"I think Dubai is a perfect place for me to start a season because of the support and the fans that showed up tonight and really cheered me on the way they did," Djokovic told reporters in an outdoor press conference that was specifically set up for him, away from the main interview room.

"They exceeded my best expectations, so to say, in terms of the atmosphere."

The 34-year-old's hopes of winning a 10th Australian Open, and 21st Grand Slam, last month were shattered when he had his visa cancelled and was deported for not being vaccinated against COVID-19.

In his absence, Rafael Nadal clinched a record-breaking 21st major title, moving ahead of Djokovic and Roger Federer - who each have 20 - in the race for Grand Slam supremacy.

"The (Australian Open) final, I was trying not to watch it, but then I had my household watching, basically everyone was watching, my wife and my kids, so I had to follow it," reflected Djokovic.

"But congratulations to Rafa. Incredible performance. Amazing fighter