Djokovic with point to prove against younger rivals at Australian Open

Djokovic has brought in former rival Andy Murray as coach in an eye-catching move that he hopes will give him a winning edge

Novak Djokovic returns to the scene of his greatest triumphs this week at the Australian Open, adamant he is ready and able to see off the challenge from Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz in his pursuit of a record 25th Grand Slam crown.

Chinks in the armour of the 37-year-old former world number one were exposed last year when he failed to clinch a major title for the first time since 2017, although he did win Olympic gold.

The Serb's fallibility was again on show when he was bundled out of the Brisbane International last week in the quarter-finals by American Reilly Opelka.

But with fellow great Rafael Nadal joining Roger Federer in retirement, Djokovic is fired up to prove he still has what it takes against the young brigade.

Djokovic has brought in former rival Andy Murray as coach in an eye-catching move that he hopes will give him a winning edge.

"The way I'm feeling, I still think that I can go strong for years to come," said Djokovic, now ranked seven in the world.

"I still love this sport and I still love competing.

"I'm ready to compete, whatever it takes, however many hours it takes with the youngsters."

Few would bet against Djokovic on the blue hardcourts of Melbourne Park, where he has long been a dominant force, winning a record 10 titles.

Another would give him 25 major crowns to move him clear of Margaret Court as the outright leader.

Published - January 09, 2025 01:39 am IST