Serbian World No.1 Novak Djokovic has kick-started his season at the ATP Cup 2021. And, from the first set of his first match against Canadian Denis Shapovalov, the Serbian roared.

Although they both tested each other invariably throughout the first set, Novak took the lead. Also, the 17-time Grand Slam champion had to fill in for Dusan Lajovic’s loss against Milos Raonic. Thus, giving his everything, Novak continued his lead in the second set, winning the match 7-5, 7-5.

Novak Djokovic wins the first set vs Shapovalov with power

Earlier, the 33-year-old Serbian had not played the first half of the Adelaide Exhibition because of a blister. However, when playing for his country, Novak Djokovic becomes truly something else.

To seal the deal on the first set, the Serbian ace pulled off an exceptional return. In addition to that, he smashed a backhand way outside the sideline, showing his arms can get to anything.

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Then, after winning the set-point, the leader of Team Serbian jumped up in the air and let out a roar. With that, he has officially set the tone for the tournament.

Furthermore, in the second set, the defending champion of the ATP Cup decided to make his case even stronger. What initially looked like a point lost, turned out to be an example of Djokovic’s reach on the court.

In the eighth game, Denis Shapovalov hit the top of the net and the ball simply dropped down. But it was not too low for the 8-time Australian Open champion. Not only did he manage to return the ball with air space below his racket, but Novak even showed off his incredible fitness and flexibility with the shot.

Undoubtedly, this is just the beginning for World No.1 from Serbia. Djokovic is the master of return and reach, and he will continue to execute them thoroughly.

WATCH: Novak Djokovic Brings Out His Signature Celebration Ahead of ATP Cup 2021

Djokovic will face Alexander Zverev next in the ATP Cup

The tournament has only begun; however, the Serbian ace played like a champion. Next up, he will meet German World No.7 Alexander Zverev in their group stage encounter. One thing is clear, Djokovic is ready to defend Serbia’s ATP Cup trophy in Melbourne Park.

On the other side, the Canadian World No.12 also played with complete determination. He dragged both the sets deep but couldn’t find the chinks in Djokovic’s armor. However, the 21-year-old will need to up his game to bring Team Canada in lead again.

As of now, Team Canada and Team Serbia stand at 1-1 each. Moving ahead, a lot of big matches are set to entertain the fans. The clash between Djokovic and Zverev will be worth every penny.

Will Djokovic’s fitness give him the distinction from his peers at the Australian Open 2021?

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