Novak Djokovic cruised into the second round of the Brisbane International, beating Rinky Hijikata in straight sets on Tuesday.

It was Djokovic's first singles outing of the new season and his 6-3 6-3 victory marked the first time in 16 years he has competed at the tournament.

Facing Djokovic was Australian world no. 73 Hijitkata, who won nine of his previous 10 matches at ATP Challenger level to end the previous season. But the 23-year-old was no match for 24-time major champion Djokovic.

"I always expect myself to do well on the court," Djokovic said. "Obviously, a win is a win. To start off the new season with a win is very important.

"I think Hijikata deserves a great round of applause for his performance. He was really, really good. He made me work definitely for the win tonight."

Djokovic had needed a tie-break to get the win alongside Nick Kyrgios in his doubles debut the previous night, but this was far more straightfoward.

Coming into the competition as top seed, the Serbian claimed an early break and never looked back to set up a second-round match against Gael Monfils, who himself won in three sets against qualifier Nishesh Basavareddy.

One notable absentee from the tournament in Brisbane is Djokovic's new coach Andy Murray, with the pair having linked up following Murray's retirement after the 2024 Olympics in Paris.

"He's actually skiing at the moment," Djokovic said. "He's on a family skiing trip.

"Sending my love to all the Murray family. I hope he doesn't get injured skiing before he comes to Melbourne.

"We spoke before the match. I'm excited to have him in my team. For 20+ years, he's been across the net. For the first time ever, he's on the same side of the court. Should be fun in Melbourne."

Djokovic is due back on court for a doubles match with Kyrgios on New Year's Day, but said that he would be staying up to see in 2025 with his family.

"No, we'll definitely stay up to celebrate the new year. We have some plans; my family's here. My kids are excited to go past their bedtime. We're going to watch one of many fireworks tonight in Brisbane," he said.