Novak Djokovic ignited the festivities for 2024 as he secured a 2-1 victory for Serbia over China near the stroke of midnight on Sunday at the United Cup in Perth.
The world number one commenced the new season by partnering in mixed doubles with compatriot and longtime friend Olga Danilovic to beat Zheng Qinwen and ATP number 58 Zhang Zhizhen, clinching a 6-4, 1-6, 10-6 triumph.
Glancing at his watch after his on-court interview, Djokovic then urged the house DJ to step in for five minutes before leading the RAC stadium crowd in a spirited countdown to the midnight hour.
"Thanks to the fans for staying this late," the winner of 24 Grand Slams said. "We're glad you decided to spend this special night with us."
The Serbs were participating in their inaugural match at the competition, while China now holds a 1-1 record.
Djokovic secured victory in his earlier singles match against Zhang with a score of 6-3, 6-2, while Danilovic succumbed to her Chinese opponent Zheng, the WTA's 2023 Most Improved Player, with a score of 6-4, 6-2. Zheng has risen to be world number 15.
The 22-year-old Danilovic couldn't express enough praise for her celebrated teammate.
"This was number one on my bucket list - to play with Novak and to win. I'm so happy. This was an incredible match; I gave my all, and I'm glad to finish 2023 like this. It could not be better. I've looked up to Novak from the first moment I touched a racquet."
It is worth mentioning that Djokovic dominated the 2023 season as he appeared in the final of all four Grand Slams Djokovic, and won three of them — Australian Open, French Open, and US Open — while he was handed a defeat by Carlos Alcaraz at Wimbledon.
After winning the ATP Finals after beating Jannik Sinner in straight sets in the final, Djokovic confirmed that he has no intention to stop and is now aiming for a “Golden Slam” — winning all major titles and a gold medal in the Olympics — for the next year.
