(Dubai) Novak Djokovic, absent for a month and his title at the Australian Open in order to treat his left thigh, was very heckled for his return to competition by the Czech Tomas Machac (130e), which he only beat in three sets 6-3, 3-6, 7-6 (7/1) at 1er tour in Dubai on Tuesday.

Without the huge bandage that had gripped his thigh throughout the Australian fortnight, the world No.1 first appeared very fit against a Czech coming out of qualifying and then seeming a little tender.

The Serb broke his opponent twice, against only one break conceded, in a first set won in 37 minutes.

Victim of a drop in speed, “Djoko” lost his first game of service in the second set, putting Machac back in the saddle who then freed himself, was more daring and offered the set 6-3 in 42 minutes.

Partially regaining his tennis, Djokovic ended up having the last word in the third round against a player who sometimes managed incredible shots. He will meet in the second round the solid Dutchman Tallon Griekspoor (39e).