Novak Djokovic has opened the new season by defeating Spain’s David Ferrer 7-5, 6-2 at the Abu Dhabi Exhibition tournament in 82 minutes.
Ferrer who came into the final on the back of a victory over World No. 1 Rafael Nadal had led 4-2 in the first set but a succession of unforced errors proved his undoing as Djokovic took control of the match and swept to victory.
“I’m very satisfied with the way I played and I always enjoy coming back here,” stated the Serb, who added $250,000 to his bank balance in the process.
New coach Boris Becker was in attendance, and will be encouraged by the Djokovic’s early season form.
In the third place playoff match, Nadal defeated Jo-Wilfried Tsonga 7-6, 6-3.