WATCH: Novak Djokovic practices with rising Thai talent ahead of Australian Open 2025
Novak Djokovic recently practiced with Thai tennis player Kasidit Samrej ahead of the 2025 Australian Open. The Serb will compete at the 2025 Brisbane International before beginning his campaign at the Melbourne major.
Djokovic wrapped up his 2024 season after a strong showing at the Shanghai Masters, where he made it to the final but fell short against Jannik Sinner. He was then scheduled to compete at the Paris Masters and the ATP Finals where he was defending champion, but withdrew from them and effectively ended his tennis season.
After taking some time away from the tennis court, the former World No.1 has returned to training ahead of the 2025 season.
Recently, Samrej took to social media to share a photo of himself with Djokovic, along with a video of their practice session on a tennis court of Amanpuri, a luxury resort located on the island of Phuket, Thailand.
Samrej expressed his gratitude to the 24-time Grand Slam champion for practicing with him and providing him with valuable advice.
“Thank you @djokernole for a great practice and your advice. It was my honor to practice with you in this week. 🎾 🔥 ," Kasidit Samrej captioned his Instagram post.
In 2024, Novak Djokovic failed to secure a title on the ATP Tour, with his best achievement being the gold medal he won at the 2024 Paris Olympics by defeating Carlos Alcaraz in the final.
Along with finishing as the runner-up at the 2024 Wimbledon Championships and the Shanghai Masters, the Serb also reached the semifinals at the Australian Open, the quarterfinals at the French Open, and was eliminated in the third round at the US Open.
Novak Djokovic will play at Brisbane International 2025 ahead of the Australian Open
Novak Djokovic will begin his 2025 season at the Brisbane International. He will use this tournament as a preparatory event ahead of the Australian Open.
The ATP 250 hard court tournament in Queensland will take place from December 30, 2024, to January 6, 2025 at the Queensland Tennis Centre. The Serb will also compete in the doubles event and will team up with Nick Kyrgios for it.
Speaking about playing at the Brisbane International, the Serb said:
“I’m excited to be kicking off my Australian swing at the Brisbane International and to compete again at Pat Rafter Arena. I am looking forward to experiencing the incredible support from the Australian fans and making this tournament one to remember.” [via Brisbane International]
Having made it to the semifinals of the Australian Open in 2024, Novak Djokovic will be aiming to clinch the title this year. A title win at the Melbourne major would mean him winning his 11th Australian Open title and a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam singles title.