Six-time Miami Open champion Novak Djokovic made his long-awaited return to the tournament Friday and easily defeated Rinky Hijikata 6-0, 7-6 (1) to reach the third round.

(Reuters) -Six-times champion Novak Djokovic made his long-awaited Miami Open return on Friday and defeated Australian Rinky Hijikata 6-0 7-6(1) to reach the third round while Polish second seed Iga Swiatek also advanced.

Novak arrived in Miami with three straight defeats. He raised his level following an early exit in Indian Wells and produced reliable numbers in his record-equaling 410th Masters 1000 victory. The Serb liked how he performed, calling it a perfect start to the campaign.