Monday at the Brisbane International saw mixed fortunes for the two players who contested the final 12 months ago.
Reigning champion Grigor Dimitrov kicked off his title defense by beating German qualifier Yannick Hanfmann 7-6(5), 6-3, to register a record 24th win at the tournament. The second seed dropped only five points behind his first serve and broke Hanfmann three times.
Dimitrov is one of only two players to have won the Brisbane title multiple times along with Andy Murray. It was at the tournament 12 months ago when he ended his 6-year title drought and then went on to end the season inside the world’s top 10 for only the second time in his career.
“I came here 15 years ago and since day one I’ve had that love affair (with Brisbane), so I want to keep on going, keep on testing myself and delivering as long as I can,” Dimitrov said.
“Hopefully I can continue and go all the way again. I enjoy the weather — it’s hot and humid and I like that.”
Meanwhile, former finalist Holger Rune suffered a first round loss to world No.28 Jiri Lehecka who prevailed 7-5, 6-3. 23-year-old Lehecka is the first Czech man to win a match at the Brisbane International since Radek Stepanek in 2016.
“To win and begin the season like that is always a good start,” said Lehecka. “The conditions suit me well here.”
Dimitrov and Lehecka are in the same section of the draw but they will only play against each other if they both reach the semi-finals.
Elsewhere, sixth seed Alejandro Tabilo was another high-profile casualty after being ousted 6-7(8), 7-6(5), 6-4, by French qualifier Benjamin Bonzi. Bonzi will play another Chilean in the next round when he takes on Nicolas Jarry. Jarry beat Mariano Navone 7-5, 7-6(7).
Top seed Novak Djokovic, who is also playing doubles with Nick Kyrgios, is scheduled to play his opening match on Tuesday. The Serbian is bidding to claim his 100th ATP title this week.
