Novak Djokovic's 2025 began with two good wins at the Brisbane ATP 250 (against Hijikata and Monfils), before the surprising defeat against American ace Reilly Opelka in the quarterfinals. The 24-time Grand Slam champion had to postpone the appointment with the 100th title of his legendary career and alarmed his fans ahead of the 2025 Australian Open.
The Happy Slam which will take place at Melbourne Park from 12 to 26 January is a very important tournament for Nole's season, who absolutely wants to win his 25th Major title and prove to the whole world that he is still competitive at the highest level.
The 37-year-old from Belgrade has already started practicing at Melbourne Park and is receiving valuable advice from his new coach Andy Murray, who arrived in Australia after a short vacation with his family. The former Scottish champion wants to help Novak win another Grand Slam title and his experience can be very useful in the decisive moments of the tournament.
Never underestimate Djokovic
Djokovic confided that tennis is still a priority for him and that he wants to break new records before retiring. The Serbian will not be the top favorite to lift the trophy on Sunday 26 January, but he will start behind Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz.
On the latest edition of his well-known podcast, Andy Roddick was asked if Nole's loss to Opelka in Brisbane is worrisome.
With Novak Djokovic this is less alarming based on match-up and the fact that someone can serve well, he answered.
ObviouslyReilly Opelka did more than just serve well but when you are one of the few people who are probably guaranteed a few holds against Novak, I am not that concerned.
I am not super alarmed for Novak, its not like he doesnt know how to play tennis.
The best of five format favours Novak over everyone except maybe a couple of players on earth at this point in his career.
Its still a long way to beat Novak Roddick concluded.
