By Chris Oddo | @TheFanChild | Monday December 30, 2024
Djokovic and Kyrgios wowed the crowd and earned a hard-fought victory on Monday in Brisbane.
Photo Source: TTV
Novak Djokovic and Nick Kyrgios kicked off their 2025 campaign with an energized doubles victory in Brisbane, the iconic duo notching a 6-4, 6-7(4), 10-8 win against Alexander Erler and Andreas Mies to set a clash with the top-seeded duo of Nikola Mektic and Michael Venus next.
It was a celebratory atmosphere inside Pat Rafter Arena as Djokovic and Kyrgios each created some moments for the highlight reel as they edged out victory much to the delight of an enthusiastic audience.
Both players hit phenomenal hot shots that brought fans to their feet. Djokovic hit an around-the-net-post backhand that clippled the baseline in the opening set, while Kyrgios pulled a tweener lob from his bag of tricks.
“That’s just an iconic Novak moment,” Kyrgios said of the 24-time major champion’s magic moment in the 10th game of the opening set.
“The way the guy moves around the court, I’ve never moved like that in my life. I was just loving it... The fans in here wanted me to underarm serve, but I was trying to be professional! I don’t know which Nick Kyrgios they want. Do you want tweeners, or do you want me to focus and get a win?
"I tried to find that balance tonight as much as I could.”
“That was awesome. Thank you, guys, for coming out tonight,” said Djokovic. “A packed house and an amazing atmosphere. Great to be back.”
On Tuesday in Brisbane, Djokovic will face Rinky Hijikata in his first singles match in Brisbane; Kyrgios will face Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard.