The 2021 Australian Open draw took place on Friday. Novak, a record-extending eight-time AO champion, is a top seed. He will open title defence against world no.66 Jeremy Chardy of France (H2H 13-0).

Novak extended his perfect singles ATP Cup record, defeating Alexander Zverev in three sets 6-7 (3), 6-2, 7-5. The tie was decided by a doubles rubber (Djokovic/Cacic l.to Zverev/Struff 6-7, 7-5, 7-10).

After two singles matches, Serbia and Canada were tied at 1-1 in Group A action. Milos Raonic beat Dusan Lajovic 6-3, 6-4, then Novak defeated Denis Shapovalov 7-5, 7-5. Nole and Filip Krajinovic won the deciding doubles 7-5, 7-6 (4) to claim victory in the tie.

Novak took part in a "Day at the Drive" exhibition event on Friday. He pulled out of it because of a blistered hand, before appearing on court to play a set, helping his compatriot Filip Krajinovic beat Jannik Sinner.

Melbourne Park will host the ATP Cup this year, which will be played from February 2 to February 6. 2020 champion Serbia, which will be led by world no.1 Novak Djokovic, has been selected into Group A along with Germany and Canada.

The field is set for the 2021 ATP Cup, to be held from February 1-5 in Melbourne. Twelve countries will battle for the team trophy, with 2020 champion Serbia and runner-up Spain leading the way.

Novak has started his 300th week at No. 1 and now only record-holder Roger Federer is ahead of him for most weeks spent at No. 1. If Djokovic maintains his position, he will pass the Swiss star on 8 March 2021.

Novak vs Dominic Thiem Australian Open final encounter ( 6-4, 4-6, 2-6, 6-3, 6-4) is the best Grand Slam match of the 2020 season.

Novak saved four match points in the second set and led 4-0 in the third set tie-break, but haven't made it into the Nitto ATP Finals championship match. Dominic Thiem clinched a 7-5, 6-7 (10), 7-6 (5) win in three hours. The Serbian star has enjoyed another exceptional season, capturing four titles, and has finished as world no.1 for the sixth time in the past 10 years.

Novak earned a semi-final spot following a 6-3, 7-6 (4) win over Alexander Zverev (GER, 6). For a place in the final, the top seed will face third-seeded Austrian Dominic Thiem on Saturday at 15:00 CET.