Novak Djokovic found himself utterly bewildered during a light-hearted segment for Channel Nine at the Australian Open, where the Serbian tennis legend was quizzed on peculiar Australian habits.
When asked to estimate what proportion of dog owners Down Under would share their frozen treat with their canine companions, Djokovic expressed disbelief at the very premise.
"What? Oh my god, I mean, this is... anything above 10 per cent will be ridiculous!" he declared.
Upon discovering the actual figure stood at 19 per cent, the 24-time Grand Slam champion was left astonished, playfully demanding: "Australia, what's wrong with you?"
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The broadcaster's feature also probed Djokovic on other curious aspects of Australian culture, posing questions about social etiquette and parental honesty.
The tennis star was asked whether he believed Australians considered it acceptable to conduct FaceTime calls in public spaces.
Perhaps most daringly, the segment also questioned what percentage of Australian parents would confess to having an unattractive baby.
Novak Djokovic found himself utterly bewildered during a light-hearted segment for Channel Nine at the Australian Open, where the Serbian tennis legend was quizzed on peculiar Australian habits
|GETTY
The tongue-in-cheek exchange showcased Djokovic's playful side, though his cheeky remarks about local customs may not endear him to Melbourne crowds as he pursues glory at the tournament where he has previously enjoyed considerable success.
The Serbian veteran secured a winning start to his campaign in Melbourne, though he has openly acknowledged doubts about whether he possesses the endurance to compete with the sport's younger elite over a fortnight.
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Five facts for tennis fans | GETTY/PADjokovic reached the semi-finals at all four major tournaments last year without claiming a title, leaving him tantalisingly close to an unprecedented 25th Grand Slam crown.
The 38-year-old has conceded he no longer believes he can match the physical demands required to outlast Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner across gruelling five-set encounters, suggesting he may need fortune to favour him if he is to lift the trophy.
Following his opening victory, Djokovic reflected on the guidance he received early in his career that has enabled his remarkable longevity at the highest level.
"I was very fortunate early on in my career to encounter some people that taught me and guided me to play the long shot in my career not to burn out too quickly, take care of my body, of my mind and try to have as long a career as possible," he explained.
Novak Djokovic breezed into the next round of the Australian Open after beating Pedro Martinez | REUTERS"I'm blessed to still be playing at this level. Another win tonight here is a dream come true."
The Serbian expressed satisfaction with his serving performance and noted he would utilise every available hour during his break between matches to ensure his body is in optimal condition for the challenges ahead.
Next up for Djokovic is a clash with Francesco Maestrelli.
The Italian booked his place in the second round with a five-set win over Terence Atmane.