Novak Djokovic has overcome a slow start and saved a set point before beating Filip Krajinovic 7-6 (8-6) 6-3 in an all-Serbian first-round match at the Erste Bank Open.

Djokovic had an early break for a 3-1 lead but lost the next four games against his regular hitting partner.

However, Krajinovic failed to close out the set as he scored just one point while serving at 5-4 and later missed a set point at 6-5 in the tiebreaker.

Djokovic also took a 3-1 lead in the second but this time saved a break point in the fifth game and wrapped up the win when Krajinovic hit a forehand long and dropped serve for a second time in the set.

Djokovic, who won the event in his last appearance here in 2007, meets Borna Coric in the second round.

Also, Grigor Dimitrov defeated Karen Kachanov 7-6 (8-6) 6-3 and Hubert Hurkacz defeated Attila Balasz 6-3 7-5.

Defending champion Dominic Thiem was set to take on Vitaliy Sachko later on Tuesday.

The Ukrainian player replaced Kei Nishikori, who pulled out with a shoulder injury.

After health and safety measures were tightened in Austria last week, a total of 1000 spectators were allowed in the 9000-capacity Stadthalle arena.