Djokovic faces Chardy, Kenin meets Inglis at Australian Open

Brenton Edwards / AFP

Novak Djokovic begins his Australian Open title defence against Jeremy Chardy after the draw for the year's first Grand Slam was made on Friday.

World number one Djokovic captured a record-extending eighth title at Melbourne Park last year by beating Dominic Thiem, who is seeded third and faces Mikhail Kukushkin.

Rafael Nadal, seeking a first title at the major since 2009, faces Laslo Djere in his opener.

Reigning women's champion Sofia Kenin will meet wildcard Maddison Inglis.

Top-ranked Ash Barty resumes her quest to become the first homegrown singles winner at the Australian Open since 1978 when the 24-year-old takes on Danka Kovinic.

American Serena Williams, looking to win a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam, meets Laura Siegemund in the opening round while 2019 champion Naomi Osaka faces Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova.