Novak Djokovic had the opportunity to play one final match before the 2024 Australian Open, and it turned out to be a positive encounter against Stefanos Tsitsipas.
Both players received their draw just a few hours earlier, with Djokovic scheduled to face a qualifier, while Tsitsipas knew he had a tough first-round match against Matteo Berrettini.
In preparation for the tournament, the two finalists from the previous year had the chance to showcase their skills on the renowned Rod Laver Arena. They took part in a charity match, joining other players like Alex de Minaur and Carlos Alcaraz, who had already competed earlier.
The exhibition match served as an opportunity for Djokovic to address concerns about a recent wrist injury. Fans eagerly awaited this game to determine if he was in good health leading up to the much-anticipated Grand Slam, commencing on January 14th.
Although these pre-tournament matches provide glimpses of a player's form, it is essential to remember that positive signs can sometimes be misleading. Nick Kyrgios, for instance, participated in an exhibition match before last year's Australian Open but eventually withdrew due to an injury. Consequently, it is crucial to approach these matches with caution and recognize that they do not always carry significant weight.
