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AAP
AAP

Djokovic shows he's the Melbourne Park king once more

Novak Djokovic auditions to replace David Warner at the top of the order for Australia. (Joel Carrett/AAP PHOTOS)

Novak Djokovic bowled over Steve Smith, ran down Peter Bol and flirted with fellow reigning Australian Open champion Aryna Sabalenka on a night of fun and frivolity at Melbourne Park.

He also swished hoops to showcase his basketball prowess, had a cosy chat with Nick Kyrgios and took charge from the umpire's chair at Rod Laver Arena.

But the 10-time Open champion ultimately confirmed himself as the undisputed Melbourne Park king during 'A Night with Novak and Friends' on Thursday.

Novak Djokovic (left) and Nick Kyrgios chat on stage.
Nick Kyrgios and Novak Djokovic get down to business at Melbourne Park. (Joel Carrett/AAP PHOTOS)

After downing Stefanos Tsitsipas in an exhibition set - a 'rematch' of last year's Open final - Djokovic dazzled a capacity crowd at the charity event and even showcased his wheelchair wizardry to help raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for the Australian Open Foundation.

"I have to pinch myself, honestly, after so many years of professional tennis, coming back to the Rod Laver Arena is always extra special," the 24-times grand slam champ said ahead of his quest to surpass Aussie legend Margaret Court as the most prolific singles major winner.

Steve Smith.
Steve Smith deals with a Djokovic bouncer during 'A Night with Novak and Friends'. (Joel Carrett/AAP PHOTOS)

"I don't take these evenings for granted ... It's a very special evening."

Special, too, apparently for Sabalenka, who claimed "OMG, I have the best view here" while serving with her partner Djokovic in a mixed doubles hit-and-giggle with Tsitsipas and fellow Greek ace Maria Sakkari.

"Focus Novak, focus," Djokovic said as Sabalenka mimicked her bum-wiggling teammate while he tried to serve.

Cricket great Smith and Australian Olympic athletics star Bol also joined in the action.

But no one could dethrone the Melbourne Park king.

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