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World No.2 Novak Djokovic says the ATP Cup starting this week will provide the ideal preparation for the Australian Open where he will be defending champion.
A record eighth Australian Open title is in Novak Djokovic's sights after the world No.2 claimed the ATP Cup will provide the ideal preparation for the opening grand slam of 2020.
Djovokic admits he has not yet acclimatised to the Australian heat after arriving in Brisbane this week to represent Serbia in the inaugural 24-team ATP Cup starting on Friday.
But the 16-time grand slam winner was relishing a chance to usher in the New Year in Australia, saying it would prove invaluable for his title defence at Melbourne Park later this month.
Djokovic traditionally starts the year at the star-studded Qatar Open but had no complaints about tweaking his schedule in order to contest the ATP Cup in Brisbane.
Serbia will meet France, Chile and South Africa in their pool while Australia, Canada, Greece and Germany will also feature at Pat Rafter Arena before a finals series in Sydney.
Asked if the ATP Cup was the ideal Australian Open preparation, Djokovic said: "I think so.
"I haven't been playing any Aussie opening week of the season tournament for a while.
"I have been playing mostly in Qatar.
"I think (starting year in Brisbane) can help (Australian Open chances).
"I am here earlier than most years. I get acclimatised. I love being here - it feeds me with positive energy."
He may still be getting used to the Australian heat but Djokovic claimed he wouldn't want to be anywhere else after bonding with his Serbian teammates.
Captained by Nenad Zimonjic, the Serbian team is completed by Dusan Lajovic, Nikola Milojevic, Viktor Troicki and Nikola Cacic.
"I am still getting acclimatised. Back in Europe where I reside it is not as warm, it takes a bit of time, that is why I came here earlier," said Djokovic, who was enthused by the new event.
"The concept of ATP Cup does give us an opportunity to represent your country and be part of a team, which is not something we experience during the year very often.
"It does feed you with energy and motivation. It's a lot of intensity on the court but also a lot of fun and relaxation off it."
The French team will be led by world No.10 Gael Monfils, while South African Kevin Anderson was as high as No.5 in the world earlier this year.
Teams will play just two singles and one doubles rubber in each ATP Cup tie.
