Djokovic kicks off 2024 at Brisbane International.©(@BigBadWolfWolfy )
Novak Djokovic will kick off his 2024 Australian campaign by competing at the Brisbane International before bidding for a 25th Grand Slam title at the Australian Open in January. The 37-year-old, who has won the Melbourne significant 10 times, is tied with Australian Margaret Court on a record 24 Grand Slam singles titles. Djokovic, currently ranked seventh globally, could not add to his tally of Grand Slam victories during a frustrating 2024 season.
The Brisbane International, scheduled to run from December 29 to January 5, serves as one of the final warm-up events ahead of the Australian Open, which begins on January 12. Djokovic expressed his excitement about the upcoming tournament: “I’m excited to be kicking off my Australian swing at the Brisbane International and to compete again at Pat Rafter Arena. I look forward to experiencing the incredible support from the Australian fans and making this tournament one to remember.”
With 99 ATP titles, Djokovic wants to join American Jimmy Connors (109) and Swiss legend Roger Federer (103) as the third player in the Open era to reach 100 career titles. The field in Brisbane will include notable players such as Nick Kyrgios, defending champion Grigor Dimitrov, and Holger Rune, adding further excitement to the tournament.
Djokovic recently appointed Andy Murray as his coach for the Australian Open, which adds a fresh dynamic to his preparations. Murray, a former British number one, has faced Djokovic in four Australian Open finals, though he has never managed to win. While the exact date for when Murray will begin his coaching role has not been finalized, it is understood that he will not be in Brisbane with Djokovic for this tournament. Earlier this year, Djokovic reached the semi-finals of the Australian Open before losing to eventual champion Jannik Sinner.
