Djokovic wins exhibition match in Melbourne

Novak Djokovic beat Alexander Zverev 7-6(6) at a highly entertaining exhibition match in Melbourne, ahead of the start of the Australian Open.

Facing powerful serves from the German, Djokovic brought laughter to the crowd when he complained about the power of a Zverev forehand winner, before the German reminded everyone of Djokovic's illustrious career record as a reason to never complain.

Having ticked Olympic champion off his wishlist in Paris, Djokovic has the outright record for most Grand Slam singles titles in his sights and few would bet against him walking off Rod Laver Arena on Jan. 26 with the unprecedented 25th.

There could be no place more appropriate for Djokovic to finally break free of his tie with Margaret Court on 24 Grand Slam singles titles than in her own backyard at Melbourne Park.

Fans in Melbourne have already seen a few exhibition matches this year. Jannik Sinner won his exhibition match against Alexei Popyrin, Carlos Alcaraz lost his match to Alex de Minaur, and Qinwen Zheng bested Elina Svitolina.

Djokovic, like Court, won his first major at the Australian Open and he can end the debate definitively on his 22nd visit to Melbourne as a professional.

Novak Djokovic's former rival-turned-coach Andy Murray will be at his side. Murray played Djokovic 36 times from 2006 to 2022, losing 25 including four Australian Open finals. The Briton, who retired after last year's Olympics, joined Djokovic's team in November.

Murray opened up for the first time about his new coaching role, which began with a “surprise” call he received from Djokovic, urging him to help coach him. Murray shared details of the call, admitting he couldn’t turn down Djokovic’s request to join his coaching team.

The Australian Open main draw starts on Jan. 12, with Djokovic facing American wildcard Nishesh Basavareddy in the first round.