Novak Djokovic returns to competitive tennis this week as he plays singles and doubles at the Brisbane International.
Djokovic won’t be coached by Andy Murray in Brisbane, but the former rivals are set to link up at the 2025 Australian Open.
Before then, however, Djokovic takes on Rinky Hijikata in the opening round of the Brisbane International on Tuesday.
Furthermore, Djokovic will partner Nick Kyrgios in men’s doubles, with the rivals-turned-friends taking on Alexander Erler and Andreas Mies.
The Serbian failed to win a Grand Slam title in 2025, but did manage to get his hand on Olympic gold in Paris.
Novak Djokovic plans change to his 2025 schedule
Knee surgery did impact his time on the court, although he did manage to reach the Wimbledon final shortly after.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion has now discussed that scenario and indeed his season in general in his opening Brisbane International press conference.
“It’s been an interesting year in which my main focus and priority was to win the gold medal in the Olympics and I achieved that,” said Djokovic.
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“[I] had the surgery of the knee, but I managed to play soon after that the Wimbledon final, which was also a surprise to me to be honest. It was a great tournament period between Roland Garros, Wimbledon and the Olympic Games.
“But overall, I’ve had more losses and ups and downs in this season than previous seasons, so I’m looking for a good start of the season.
“I’m planning to play a bit more tournaments this year than I did last season. Hopefully also the level is going to go up and as a consequence I will be able to hopefully win a few tournaments and get my ranking higher.”
Novak Djokovic chasing ATP Tour milestone at the Brisbane International
All eyes will be on Djokovic and Kyrgios in Brisbane, particularly with the latter’s return from injury on home soil.
But the former will also be eyeing a strong individual performance after his somewhat disappointing season.
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Djokovic finished 2024 seventh in the ATP Tour rankings, with a win-loss record of 37-9 and one title won.
But Grand Slam success wasn’t achieved, with time now running out for the Serbian to clinch a record-breaking 25th title.
While that record could arrive in Melbourne next month, he first has the chance to secure a 100th ATP Tour-level title at the Brisbane International.
Djokovic has previously hinted at a busy season in 2025, having already agreed to play at the Qatar Open in Doha in February.
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