Novak Djokovic says he had the "best possible experience" in returning with a win at the Dubai Tennis Championships in his first match since being involved in a vaccination and visa saga in the build-up to the Australian Open.
The world number one became the focus of a global story when he was deported from Australia on 16 January because of his Covid-19 vaccination status.
But on his return to action he saw off Italy's Lorenzo Musetti 6-3 6-3.
"A pleasant experience," he said.
After thanking the crowd following his first match of 2022, Djokovic added: "I couldn't pick a better place to kick start the season - it was the best possible experience tonight.