Novak Djokovic goes past Cristian Garin in opening round of Astana Open

Novak Djokovic continued his good form after winning his 89th ATP title at Tel Aviv. The Serbian easily went past Cristian Garin in the first round of the Astana Open. Djokovic won convincingly against the Chilean in 62 minutes by 6-1, 6-1.

The former World No.1 was delighted with his complete performance. Djokovic believes the first round of every tournament is always tricky as the player has to adapt to new court and weather conditions but he was able to hit the ground running.

“From the start to the end, [it was] a great performance,” said Djokovic after the match. “Playing in a new tournament, different conditions, the first match is never easy. Obviously, you are looking to see how you are going to adapt, but I did it perfectly, really, played as well as I can. I just made him work and used every opportunity that was presented to me.”

Djokovic added that he has been fortunate to adjust to new conditions in his glorious career and his vast experience of playing in different tournaments and different situations has also helped him considerably.

“I was lucky that throughout my career I was actually pretty quick in adjusting to different conditions and surfaces,” said Djokovic. “But I think that experience helps of knowing what to do. But [also] winning a tournament, [as opposed to] losing in a final or semis, makes a difference mentally. Coming into this tournament I feel confident, I feel excited, I feel motivated, so I think that helps as well to adjust quickly.”

Djokovic is chasing his fourth title of the season after winning the Italian Open, Wimbledon, and recently Tel Aviv Watergen Open. The Serbian will take on World No. 34 Botic van de Zandschulp in the second round.