Novak Djokovic provides update on coach Andy Murray ahead of Australian Open
The IndependentSign up to our free sport newsletter for all the latest news on everything from cycling to boxing Sign up to our free sport email for all the latest news Sign up to our free sport email for all the latest news SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Nick Kyrgios was beaten on his singles comeback in Brisbane and cast doubt on his Australian Open hopes but Novak Djokovic sent new coach Andy Murray a positive message with a comfortable victory. Murray will join his old rival for the Australian Open next month, and Djokovic revealed the Scot is following his progress from the ski slopes after beating Australian Rinky Hijikata 6-3 6-3 in the first round of the Brisbane International. To start off the new season with a win is very important.” Kyrgios had played only one singles match since October 2022 following knee and wrist surgeries but was only just edged out in a big-serving contest against rising young Frenchman Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard. It was just good to be back out there and to say that I can still play a level against someone like that who is coming off the best year of their career and only getting better and confident, and I’m coming back and I asked the question, and he just played a couple of big points better than I did.” The 29-year-old has used his protected ranking of 21 from before his injury woes to enter the Australian Open but admitted he is unsure yet if he will play in Melbourne.