Novak Djokovic booked his place in the second round of the Australian Open with a straight sets win over American Mitchell Krueger.
The world number one is going in search of a record seventh Australian Open title and started in blistering fashion when seeing off Krueger 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 on Rod Laver Arena.
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Despite what looked to be a very comfortable win on Tuesday night, Djokovic still said he had to work hard to get past Krueger, who is ranked 230 in the world.
“Playing him for the first time I didn’t know what to expect,” said the Serbian. “He was very competitive and I had to work hard. I enjoyed it, hope you did too.”
Djokovic will now play old foe Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, who he beat in the 2008 final, in the second round, and is looking forward to the second-round clash. “I have great respect for Jo,” Djokovic added.
“We will face each other again on this great court, hopefully. I am looking forward to it.”
