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Rediff.com  » Sports » Djokovic revelling in mixed format at Hopman Cup

Djokovic revelling in mixed format at Hopman Cup

By Simon Cambers
January 02, 2008 19:04 IST
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Novak Djokovic may be using the Hopman Cup as preparation for this month's Australian Open but the world number three is also clearly enjoying himself at the mixed team event.

The Serb, whose impressions of his fellow players have become famous, partly thanks to the video-sharing Web site YouTube, said the format of the event offered a special attraction for the men.

"It's always a good experience to play with a female," joked Djokovic, who is representing Serbia with women's world number three Jelena Jankovic.

"You can kiss in the end, you can kiss in the start. While you're serving, she's bending over at the net. I think some of the guys here (in the crowd) will understand."

Djokovic had struggled to victory against Lu Yen-hsun in Serbia's win over Taiwan on Sunday.

But the 20-year-old, who will be one of the favourites for the title at the Australian Open, looked more his usual self on Wednesday as he beat Frenchman Arnaud Clement 6-3 6-3.

"I think I played better today than I did three days ago," Djokovic said.

"Obviously it was my first match of the season against Lu, who played a really good match, so I was struggling.

"Today I was performing really well. I was keeping my focus throughout the match, trying to be in control, which I did. Hopefully it's going to be even better in the next match.

"It was a pretty good match today but I think what decided our match today was my serve. I think it was like never before."

(Editing by Martin Petty)

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Simon Cambers
Source: REUTERS
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