In a thrilling doubles match at the Brisbane International, Novak Djokovic and Nick Kyrgios teamed up for the first time, delivering an electrifying performance that left fans on the edge of their seats. The pair, who were once fierce rivals, have now become close friends and their camaraderie was on full display during their match.
Kyrgios, making his return to competitive tennis after nearly two-and-a-half years due to wrist and knee surgeries, showed no signs of rust as he and Djokovic secured a hard-fought 6-4, 6-7 (4-7), 10-8 victory over Alexander Erler and Andreas Mies. The match was a testament to Kyrgios’s resilience and Djokovic’s unwavering support.
Djokovic, who has won a record 24 Grand Slam singles titles, expressed his delight at sharing the court with Kyrgios. “I’m glad to have shared the court with him on his comeback,” Djokovic said after the match. “I haven’t played that many doubles matches in my life, particularly in the last five years, so whatever Nick was saying, I was following actually. So Nick, it’s great to have you back on court in a competitive environment.”
Kyrgios, known for his entertaining style of play, added a spark to Djokovic’s usually methodical game. The duo’s chemistry was evident as they exchanged smiles, laughs, and some spectacular shots that had the crowd cheering throughout the match. Djokovic even pulled off an around-the-net backhand winner, a shot that left Kyrgios in awe.
The match was not without its challenges, as the pair had to survive a tense tiebreaker in the third set to secure the win. But their determination and teamwork ultimately paid off, and they celebrated their victory with a chest bump, much to the delight of the fans.
Djokovic praised Kyrgios’s performance and expressed his hope for the Aussie’s continued success. “Hopefully Nick can stay healthy because, with this game, he can beat anybody on any surface,” Djokovic said. “It’s great and exciting news for all the tennis world seeing him back on the court.”
As they look ahead to the Australian Open, both Djokovic and Kyrgios are eager to continue their successful partnership and see how far they can go in singles and doubles competitions. Their unexpected doubles pairing has not only added a new dimension to their careers but has also brought joy and excitement to tennis fans around the world.
In the end, Djokovic’s words summed up the sentiment perfectly: “It’s a pleasure to play with him, and I’m glad to share the court with him on his comeback.”
Djokovic in Brisbane, ranking, and results in 2024
Now ranked no.7, the Serbian has managed to achieve an overall 1-0 match record in 2024. Djokovic is participating in Brisbane where he managed to beat the world no.73 Rinky Hijikata 6-3 6-3.
Novak Djokovic will fight against the world no.55 Gael Monfils in the 2nd round. Their head to head is 19-1 for Djokovic.
Djokovic clinched 1 title in 2024 in Paris. The Serbian was the runner-up in Wimbledon and in Shanghai (Shanghai Rolex Masters).
The Serbian won 99 titles in his career: 52 on hard courts, 20 on clay courts, 19 on indoor courts and 8 on grass courts. (See the list of his titles)
Nick Kyrgios in 2024
Ranked world no.470, the Australian played his last match on the 31st of December when he was defeated by world no.31 Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard 7-6(2) 6-7(4) 7-6(3) in the 1st round in Brisbane (draw).
Until now, during this year Kyrgios has achieved an overall 0-1 record.
Novak Djokovic and Nick Kyrgios squared off 3 times. Their current record is 2-1 for Kyrgios.