PERTH, Australia, Dec 30, 2023 (BSS/AFP) - Novak Djokovic called Australia

his "happy place" on Saturday as he prepared to kick off his season at the
United Cup with a tricky clash against China's fast-improving Zhang Zhizhen.

The world number one holds no grudges heading into the mixed team event
nearly two years after being refused entry to the country over his stance on
Covid-19 vaccinations.

"Always felt like... (Australia) was my happy place where I felt great, other
than that situation two years ago where obviously it wasn't really
enjoyable," he said.

"But other than that, I have always enjoyed myself, played the best tennis,
and so my feelings coming into Australia this year are really positive."

The 36-year-old said he is looking forward to facing the 58th-ranked Zhang in
Sunday's group tie in Perth.

Djokovic is targeting a record 11th Australian Open title next month, but his
focus for now is on Zhang, vowing to give "always 100 percent".

China laid down a marker on Saturday with a defeat of the Czech Republic,
which featured Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova.

"I never faced Zhang," he said. "I think he now is probably the most
successful Chinese male player of all time.

"That's great, as well, because we want to see the men's tennis in China
picking up. They are a strong team, very strong team."

But the 24-time Grand Slam winner warned: "Hopefully I can start the new
season with a win."

The Serbs, trained by former player and Djokovic friend Viktor Troicki, have
been in the city for several days trying to acclimatise.

"Australia is not really around the corner for us Europeans, so we need a
little bit of time to get used to the time difference," said Djokovic.

"Obviously different conditions here than any other place where I trained or
played an exhibition recently.

"China had a clean sweep today," he added. "There's a big Chinese community
here and also Serbian community, so hopefully we can feel the energy in the
stands and support for both nations."