Novak Djokovic is facing off against 19-year-old American tennis sensation Nishesh Basavareddy in a thrilling first-round match at the 2025 Australian Open in Melbourne. The contest has been a tight one, with Djokovic trailing in the first set before taking control in the second.
Basavareddy, who has shown impressive resilience, clinched the first set 6-4, catching the World No. 7 off guard. Djokovic, however, bounced back in the second set, leveling the score at 1-1 after a 6-3 win, with Basavareddy showing signs of fatigue and slowing down due to cramps.
As the third set unfolds, Djokovic is leading 3-2, but Basavareddy is struggling with his movement, limping and possibly taking a short break to address his cramps. Despite the setback, Basavareddy, who earned a wildcard entry into the tournament, has already made a strong impression with his performance.
Basavareddy, born to parents from Andhra Pradesh, moved to San Francisco in 1999 and has rapidly risen through the ranks of tennis. A product of Bryan Smith’s coaching camp and mentored by Rajeev Ram, he has a career-high junior ranking of No. 3 and turned pro last year. With a breakthrough Challenger win in California in 2023 and several other finals appearances, Basavareddy is a rising star to watch.
Djokovic, who is vying for a record-extending 11th Australian Open title and a 25th Major overall, had spoken highly of his young opponent, praising his speed, talent, and dynamic playing style ahead of the match.
