Novak Djokovic has explained why his new coach, Andy Murray, is not by his side at the Brisbane International.

Djokovic will team up with his former rival and three-time Grand Slam winner at the Australian Open in January as he bids to win a 25th major title. Many were wondering why Murray had not linked up with the Serb in Brisbane, given its proximity to the season’s first Grand Slam in Melbourne.

After beating Rinky Hijikata on Tuesday, Djokovic explained: “He is actually skiing at the moment. He has 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 are communicating daily so I’m excited to have him in my corner. For 20-plus years he has been across the net, for the first time ever we are on the same side of the court so it should be fun in Melbourne.”

Djokovic is limbering up for a crack at his 11th Australian Open win, having been out of competitive action since losing the Shanghai Masters final to Jannik Sinner in mid-October.

He returned to the court on Sunday to play men’s doubles with Nick Kyrgios. The pair made hard work of beating Alexander Erler and Andreas Mies, but they battled through to the last 16 in front of a geed-up Australian crowd.

Djokovic’s singles comeback against Hijikata was more convincing as he dispatched the Aussie 6-3 6-3 in just over an hour.

“I always expect myself to do well on the court,” he said. “A win is a win. To start off the new season with a win is very important. [Hijikata] deserves a great round of applause for his performance tonight, he was really good and he made me work for the win.”

The match went late into the evening on New Year’s Eve. Djokovic thanked the supporters for sticking with him and revealed that he and his family are excited to delve into the Brisbane celebrations.

“Happy New Year to everyone, it’s a special evening,” he continued. “Last year I played a match at the United Cup in Perth just before midnight, and again here in Brisbane so it’s kind of a tradition now each year. Thanks for choosing to spend it here on the court with us.

“We will definitely stay up to celebrate the New Year. We have some plans. My family is here. My kids are excited to go past their bedtime. We will watch many fireworks tonight in Brisbane.”