Osaka, Nadal advance in Australia after Djokovic flies home

Published January 16, 2022 6:04 PM

By JOHN PYE
AP Sports Writer

MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — The Australian Open has started without nine-time champion Novak Djokovic. The focus is finally on the tennis. Naomi Osaka opened her title defense with a straight-set win over Camila Osorio in the second match on Rod Laver Arena. Rafael Nadal is the only past champion in the men’s bracket after Djokovic’s late withdrawal. Nadal also had a straight-set win as he renewed his bid for a men’s record 21st major singles title. Djokovic was heading home after losing a legal battle Sunday to have his visa reinstated despite not being vaccinated for COVID-19.