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Djokovic inspires Serbia to fast Davis Cup start

Novak Djokovic was back on court - and on form © Getty Images

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Novak Djokovic won his first competitive match after winning the Australian Open, as Serbia opened a commanding 2-0 lead in their Davis Cup tie against Belgium.

Djokovic, the world No. 1, was never really tested by Olivier Rochus in Charleroi, as he romped to a 6-3 6-2 6-2 victory that set the tone for Serbia.

Team-mate Viktor Troicki, elevated into the role due to the absence of Janko Tipsarevic, then put his nation on the verge of victory with a memorable come-from-behind victory against David Goffin.

Troicki lost the first two sets, but refused to give up as he eventually claimed a 1-6 3-6 7-6 6-4 6-4 success.

Elsewhere, holders Czech Republic finished the opening day against Switzerland tied at 1-1, after Lukas Rosol - Rafa Nadal's vanquisher at Wimbledon last year - was outplayed by Stanislas Wawrinka.

Switzerland, without the services of Roger Federer, then relinquished their advantage after Tomas Berdych brushed Henri Lacksonen aside.

A strong France side also opened up a 2-0 lead in their match on Friday, as Israel were left to stare defeat in the face.

Jo-Wilfried Tsonga was not perfect as he beat Amir Weintraub in four sets, but Richard Gasquet made no mistake against Dudi Sela.

"It is the perfect scenario because we've got two wins under our belt," team captain Arnaud Clement told reporters. "We will need to be very focused so we can wrap this up tomorrow."

Germany, meanwhile, suffered a setback in their match against Argentina - after Philipp Kohlschreiber was forced to retire with a hamstring injury while serving for the match against Carlos Berlocq.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.