Novak Djokovic has shared his feelings about partnering with Nick Kyrgios for the doubles at the Brisbane International in 2025. 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 of 2025 and the latter’s return after 18 months. The pair received a doubles wildcard to face Andreas Miles and Alexander Erler, triumphing 6-4, 6-7(4), 10-8 in a thrilling encounter lasting one hour and 48 minutes.
After their victory, Djokovic, during the on-court interview with the crowd, described it as a “delight” to play alongside Kyrgios and admitted that he was mostly following the Australian’s lead throughout the match.
“I want to thank Nick for playing. He said the other day it should be a pleasure to play with him. And it is. It’s a pleasure,” said the Serb.
“I am happy to share the pitch with him on his return. I haven’t played many doubles in the last 5 years. Whatever Nick said, I actually followed it,” he added.
Djokovic’s comments came in response to comments from Kyrgios ahead of their doubles campaign in Brisbane, where the Australian had told the media:
“I mean, everyone thinks he’s a joy to play with, I’m really a joy to play with, let’s be real.”
Novak Djokovic and Nick Kyrgios to lock horns with Nikola Mektic and Michael Venus in 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 Brisbane International 2025. Mektic and Venus received a bye and will begin their campaign on December 31.
Djokovic and Kyrgios will also begin their singles campaigns tomorrow, with the Serb facing Rinki Hijikata and the Australian taking on Giovanni Becci Perricard. After their time in Brisbane, both will head to Melbourne for the Australian Open, which starts on January 12.
The Serb is aiming for a record 25th Grand Slam at the first Major of the year as he seeks to break Margaret Court’s record. Backed by tennis pundits, including Serena Williams’ former coach Rennae Stubbs, she is set to make history.
His arrival in Brisbane also caused a stir as he was carrying a Pokemon-inspired Pikachu backpack, leaving fans to speculate about a cryptic message about his Major count.
Edited by Shyam Kamal
