'I feel ready!' - Djokovic graces Rod Laver in Australian Open boost

Novak Djokovic said he feels ready after arriving in Melbourne ahead of the Australian Open, which gets underway on January 15.

Six-time Australian Open champion Novak Djokovic feels he's fit to play in the first Grand Slam of the year.

The view of Novak Djokovic practising on Rod Laver Arena was a welcome one for Australian Open organisers and fans, after the six-time champion touched down in Melbourne.

Tournament officials have been sweating on the fitness of former world number one Djokovic, who has struggled to overcome an elbow injury, after the withdrawals of five-time runner-up Andy Murray and Kei Nishikori in the men's draw, while 23-time slam champion Serena Williams also pulled out.

READ: Australian Open confident Djokovic and Nadal will play in Melbourne

Djokovic was forced to skip the Mubadala World Tennis Championship and the Qatar Open, having not played competitively since withdrawing from the quarterfinal of Wimbledon in July.

But the 30-year-old and 12-time major winner – now ranked 12th in the world – looked pain-free in Melbourne on Sunday.

In a video posted to Twitter, Djokovic also wrote: "I feel ready!"

Finally back in the land down under. I feel ready! Idemo!! #AusOpenpic.twitter.com/HFvpn3U5I1

— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) January 7, 2018

 

Music to the ears of the Australian Open, which gets underway at Melbourne Park on January 15.