Novak Djokovic is preparing to change course in his tennis career, signaling a shift towards a more active tournament schedule in 2025. After spending much of 2024 focusing on Grand Slam events and playing a limited number of ATP tournaments, Djokovic appears to be ramping up his commitment to the sport.
Initially, the Serbian superstar seemed intent on reducing his tournament appearances as he transitioned into a part-time role. However, unexpected losses and a string of absences from various events this year raised questions about his focus and motivation. Djokovic also ended his season prematurely, withdrawing from the ATP Finals due to injury.
Recent moves indicate that Djokovic has reevaluated his strategy. In a surprising turn, he has hired former rival Andy Murray as his coach for the upcoming Australian Open, a decision that has sparked excitement in the tennis world. Furthermore, Djokovic has confirmed his participation in a warm-up tournament in Brisbane ahead of Melbourne, where he will aim for an unprecedented 11th Australian Open title.
In addition to Brisbane, Djokovic will compete in the ATP 500 tournament in Qatar in February, marking a significant shift from his earlier intentions to cut back on his playing schedule.
While the temptation for older players to reduce their tournament load is understandable, it can also lead to a loss of match fitness and increased injury risk. Djokovic, at 37, has played more matches than most in tennis history, and maintaining match sharpness is crucial to avoiding setbacks like the knee injury he sustained at the French Open earlier this year.
Former Wimbledon champion Pat Cash warns that failing to play enough matches can have a detrimental impact, especially for older players. “You tend to see older players start to lose five-set matches or have more bad days, and that’s natural,” Cash explained. “If you don’t have enough matches under your belt, you are going to be so sore.”
For Djokovic, the key to success in 2025 will be finding the right balance in his schedule, ensuring he is match-ready for the Grand Slams while avoiding burnout. The presence of Murray in his coaching team may provide additional motivation, but there remains uncertainty over whether Djokovic can regain the hunger that made him one of the sport’s greatest champions.
As the new year approaches, the tennis world is waiting to see if Djokovic can rediscover his competitive fire. If he does, those who doubted his ability to bounce back may regret their early assessments of the legendary player’s future.
Novak Djokovic in 2024
Currently ranked no.7, the Serbian played his last contest on the 13th of October when he was overcome by world no.1 Jannik Sinner 7-6(4) 6-3 in the final in Shanghai (draw).
During this season Djokovic achieved a composed 37-9 match record. The Serbian conquered 1 title in Paris. Djokovic was the finalist in Wimbledon and Shanghai.
He is also scheduled to play in Brisbane (Brisbane International) on the 1st of January and () on the 13th of January.
Novak Djokovic |
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