Novak Djokovic survives scare to beat Laslo Djere

Novak Djokovic came back from a set and a break down to overcome Laslo Djere in his ATP event opener in Belgrade on Wednesday, avoiding a third straight defeat.

After trailing 4-3 in the second set, the world number one defeated his fellow Serb 2-6, 7-6 (8/6), 7-6 (7/4) in three hours and 21 minutes.

After being deported from Australia before the Australian Open due to his Covid vaccination status, the 20-time Grand Slam champion is competing in only his third tournament of the season.

Djokovic was unable to compete in the Indian Wells and Miami Open tournaments in the United States.

He returned to the Monte Carlo Masters this week after a shocking quarter-final elimination to unheralded Czech Jiri Vesely in Dubai in February, but lost in his first match against eventual runner-up Alejandro Davidovich Fokina.

Djokovic had to watch as long-time rival Rafael Nadal won the Australian Open, pushing him out of a tie with Djokovic and Roger Federer for the most Grand Slam singles titles.

On and off the court, the 34-year-old has had a difficult start to 2022, but despite not being at his best on Wednesday, he displayed all of his fighting traits.

After defeating Australian John Millman 6-4, 7-6 (7/5) in the quarterfinals, Djokovic will face another compatriot, Miomir Kecmanovic.

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