Novak Djokovic sets sights on record-breaking 25th grand slam title in Brisbane!

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Novak Djokovic will launch his 2025 season and chase an unprecedented 11th Australian Open title at the Brisbane International, confirmed Wednesday. The Serbian legend, now coached by longtime rival Andy Murray, is hungry for a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam victory after a frustrating 2024, despite securing Olympic singles gold in Paris. The ATP-WTA event, set to run from December 29 to January 5, marks the perfect warm-up before the Australian Open kicks off on January 12. "I’m thrilled to start my Australian swing at the Brisbane International and return to the iconic Pat Rafter Arena," said Djokovic, who is eager to rekindle the fiery support from Australian fans and make this tournament one for the history books. If Djokovic claims victory, it would be his 100th career title, joining the exclusive ranks of Jimmy Connors (109 titles) and Roger Federer (103 titles) in the Open era.

After falling to eventual champion Jannik Sinner in this year’s Australian Open semi-finals, Djokovic is desperate to add another major to his tally. The Serbian star remains tied with Margaret Court on 24 Grand Slam singles titles and is gunning to surpass her record in Melbourne. To help reach that goal, he has teamed up with Murray, a former fierce rival now turned coach. Brisbane also marks the return of Australian tennis sensation Nick Kyrgios, who’s been sidelined by knee, foot, and wrist injuries for two years. Alongside him are top stars like Grigor Dimitrov, Holger Rune, Frances Tiafoe, and Matteo Berrettini, all ready to hit the court for the first tournament of the year. The Brisbane tournament will also welcome reigning Australian Open women’s champion and world number one Aryna Sabalenka, who has already confirmed her entry. Other top-10 women’s players, including Jessica Pegula, Emma Navarro, and Daria Kasatkina, will also compete, alongside former Brisbane champion Victoria Azarenka. Meanwhile, some of tennis’ brightest stars, including world number two Iga Swiatek, Coco Gauff, and Jasmine Paolini, will kick off their seasons at the United Cup in Sydney and Perth. Men's world number two Alexander Zverev and fourth-ranked Taylor Fritz are also set to join the action in the mixed-teams event. Djokovic’s quest for glory in Brisbane could be just the start of a career-defining 2025 season. Let me know if you'd like any adjustments!