Novak Djokovic is determined to extend his Grand Slam legacy, aiming for a record-breaking 25th major title and an unprecedented 11th Australian Open crown. The Serbian superstar begins his 2025 season this week at the Brisbane International.
Joining Djokovic in Brisbane is world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka, who is targeting her third Australian Open title. The tournament, running from December 29 to January 5, boasts a stellar lineup, including rising stars and veteran competitors.
Meanwhile, world No. 2 Iga Swiatek headlines the United Cup, marking her return after a controversial doping ban. The mixed-teams event kicks off in Perth and Sydney, setting the stage for the year’s first Grand Slam, which starts on January 12.
With the retirements of Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray this year, Djokovic stands alone from the era of the “Big Four.” In a surprising move, the 37-year-old has enlisted Murray as his coach, signaling his commitment to remaining at the top.
Although 2024 was underwhelming for Djokovic—claiming just one title, Olympic gold in Paris—he remains a formidable force, eager to reclaim dominance from rising stars like Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner.
Iga Swiatek returns to competition after serving a one-month suspension for unintentionally violating anti-doping rules. Testing positive for a banned heart medication in August, the Polish star described the ordeal as “the worst experience of my life.”
The International Tennis Integrity Agency concluded there was no intent to cheat, allowing her to avoid a longer ban. However, her reputation has taken a hit as she prepares to defend her place among tennis’s elite.
Swiatek’s case mirrors that of Jannik Sinner, who awaits a ruling on a World Anti-Doping Agency appeal after twice testing positive for a banned steroid earlier this year.
Djokovic’s return coincides with the comeback of Nick Kyrgios, who has been sidelined by injuries for nearly two years. Kyrgios will compete in both singles and doubles alongside Djokovic in Brisbane.
Other notable players in the Brisbane lineup include Grigor Dimitrov, Frances Tiafoe, and Holger Rune. On the women’s side, Sabalenka leads a strong field featuring Jessica Pegula, Ons Jabeur, and Victoria Azarenka.
Sabalenka had a stellar 2024, winning her second Australian Open, her first US Open, and multiple WTA 1000 titles, earning her the WTA Player of the Year award.
While Swiatek and Coco Gauff headline the United Cup, Naomi Osaka begins her season at the Auckland Classic. Osaka, a two-time Australian Open champion, is looking to rebound after a disappointing 2024.
Former US Open winners Emma Raducanu and Bianca Andreescu will also compete in Auckland, as the women’s tour ushers in a highly anticipated season.
