Novak Djokovic wins Davis Cup rout in first match action since US Open upset

Novak Djokovic's first match action since his stunning third-round upset at the hands of Alexei Popyrin at the US Open was a rout.

The Olympic gold medalist lost just 15 points in a 6-0, 6-1 win over Greek player Ioannis Xilas, ranked No. 770, in Davis Cup World Group I action on Saturday at the Aleksandar Nikolic Hall in Belgrade.

Djokovic last played a home Davis Cup tie seven years ago.

Djokovic's homecoming put Serbia up 2-0 on Day 1 of the two-day tie between Greece and Serbia. World No. 53 Miomir Kecmanovic opened the tie with a 6-3, 6-3 win over No. 713 Aristotelis Thanos.

The Greek team was competing without the services of Stefanos Tsitsipas, who withdrew ahead of the tie with a back injury.

"I am proud of the whole team, first of all, for showing up," Djokovic said post-match. "I know Tsitsipas, Stefanos, is not here; his brother is, but their main player is not here. They are weakened in terms of the players who came here, but nevertheless, the full squad, strongest squad of Serbian Davis Cup team is here. That's something that is always very nice to see.

"It's a huge honor, it's always a big pleasure to play for Serbia, especially at home. ... I'm proud of Kecmanovic; he played well today. I did a great match; obviously, I'm always very motivated, very pumped to perform in front of my crowd."

The tie between Greece and Serbia was one of 12 promotional ties taking place this weekend. The 12 winning nations from the World Group I ties will compete in the 2025 Davis Cup qualifying round next winter.