Novak Djokovic win his first match since the Australian Open after he thrashed Dusan Lajovic 6-0 6-1 in 56 minutes to make the second round in Monte-Carlo.
This match was a sign of returning to old habits as he returned to arguably his most comfortable surface as a familiar face returned to his coaching box in Marian Vajda. The Slovakian returning to Novak’s box after a long absence and for now a temporary fix to Novak’s problems. The two time champion returned to his peak form that he showed previously under Vajda as he opened the court nicely as the winners rolled off his racket.
The 9th seed, who was competing at a first round match in Monte Carlo for the first time since 2006 where he played Roger Federer, dominated proceedings as he broke three times in front of a subdued crowd. Djokovic completed a first set bagel in 22 minutes as he asserted his authority.
Lajovic had already qualified for this tournament and had his moments of brilliance as he was struggling to overcome his compatriot. Despite holding in the second game, it was all one way traffic as Djokovic’s deep returns caused all sorts of problems for the world number 93. After 56 minutes Djokovic completed his authoritative display and secured only his fourth victory of the season.
The victory was a much needed one and a fast start to what will be a very tough tournament for the Serbian, however he will take plenty of positives from today’s performance especially his returns. Djokovic will now play in-form Borna Coric who dominated Julien Benneteau, 6-2 6-3. The Croatian hit 8 aces as he booked his place in a blockbuster second round match on Wednesday.
Other results include a thrilling win for Andrey Rublev over Robin Haase, 7-6(7) 2-6 7-5 while 14th seed Milos Raonic survived a major scare by beating world number 365 Lucas Catarina, 3-6 6-2 6-3.
