Novak Djokovic sends message to Andy Murray after winning his first round match in Brisbane against Rinky Hijikata

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Novak Djokovic is safely into the second round of the Brisbane International after his opening round win over Rinky Hijikata.

Djokovic won his doubles match with Nick Kyrgios before doing the same in singles, with Gael Monfils up next in the latter.

Kyrgios lost to Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard in his singles match, with Nikola Mektic and Michael Venus now up next in the second round doubles.

Djokovic is chasing his 100th ATP Tour-level title at the Brisbane International, which he will be using as preparation for the Australian Open.

In Melbourne, the 24-time Grand Slam champion will be joined by his new coach and former rival Andy Murray.

Novak Djokovic messages Andy Murray after Brisbane International win

Djokovic and Murray met 36 times in ATP Tour action over the years, with the Serbian winning 25 of those matches.

He was asked on court after his latest win if he has a message for his new coach regarding his display, with Djokovic replying: “He’s actually skiing at the moment.

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“He’s on a family skiing trip. Sending my love to all the Murray family. I hope he doesn’t get injured skiing before he comes to Melbourne.

“We spoke before the match. I’m excited to have him in my team. For 20+ years he’s been across the net. For the first time ever he’s on the same side of the court. Should be fun in Melbourne.”

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There should be plenty of fun between the pair at the 2025 Australian Open, but focus and determination should be the priority.

Djokovic will be desperate to not only get back to winning ways in Grand Slams, but also clinch a record-breaking 25th major title.

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Murray meanwhile should also want to triumph in Melbourne, having lost all five of his Australian Open finals as a player.

Remarkably, four of those losses came against Djokovic, with Roger Federer also inflicting Australian heartache on the Scot.

While it won’t mean as much to Murray as it would if he was playing, an Australian Open title as a coach would be warmly welcomed.

Djokovic meanwhile boasts a record 10 Australian Open titles, with his last coming against Stefanos Tsitsipas in 2023.