Novak Djokovic has shared his feelings about teaming up with Nick Kyrgios in doubles at the 2025 Brisbane International. Both players will also compete in singles at the ATP 250 tournament.
Djokovic and Kyrgios took to the court on Monday, December 30, marking the former's first match in 2025 and the latter's return after 18 months. The pair received a double wild card and faced Andreas Miles and Alexander Erler, prevailing 6-4, 6-7 (4), 10-8 in a thrilling encounter that lasted one hour and 48 minutes.
After his win, Djokovic, during an on-court interview that had the crowd buzzing, described playing alongside Kyrgios as a “pleasure” and admitted he had been following the Australian's lead throughout the match.
“I want to thank Nick for playing. He said the other day that it should be a pleasure to play with him. And he is. It is a pleasure,” said the Serbian.
“I'm happy to share the court with him when he returns. I haven't played many doubles matches in the last 5 years. Everything Nick was saying I was actually following,” he added.
Djokovic's statements came in response to Kyrgios' statements before the doubles match in Brisbane, where the Australian player told the media:
“I mean everyone thinks it's fun to play with him, he's actually fun to play with me, let's be real.”
Novak Djokovic and Nick Kyrgios take on Nikola Mikhtic and Michael Venus at the Brisbane International Doubles 2R
Novak Djokovic and Nick Kyrgios are set to face Nikola Mektic and Michael Venus in the second round of doubles at the 2025 Brisbane International. Mektic and Venus have received a bye and will begin their campaign on December 31.
Djokovic and Kyrgios will also begin their singles campaign tomorrow, taking on Serbian Rinki Hijikata and Australian Giovanni Mbeche-Pericard. After their time in Brisbane, they will both head to Melbourne to participate in the Australian Open, which starts on January 12.
The Serbian is aiming for a record 25 Grand Slams in his first major tournament of the year, as he seeks to break Margaret Court's record. With the support of tennis analysts, including Serena Williams' former coach, Renae Stubbs, he is about to make history.
His arrival in Brisbane also caused a stir as he carried a Pokemon-themed Pikachu backpack, leaving fans speculating about a mysterious message about his pioneering status.
Edited by Shyam Kamal
