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Why Novak Djokovic’s Brisbane loss is not cause for Australian Open concern | ATP Tour

Australian Open

Why Djokovic’s Brisbane loss is not cause for Australian Open concern

ATPTour.com examines Djokovic’s pre-major results

January 04, 2025

AFP/Getty Images

Novak Djokovic waves to the Brisbane crowd after falling to Reilly Opelka on Friday evening at the ATP 250 event.
By ATP Staff

Novak Djokovic suffered a surprising quarter-final loss on Friday to Reilly Opelka at the Brisbane International presented by Evie. History shows that the defeat is not cause for concern leading into the Australian Open.

Djokovic has won the season’s first major a record 10 times in his career. However, in the leadup to those memorable triumphs, the Serbian claimed a title only three times, and one of them was in a team competition, at the 2020 United Cup.

The 37-year-old has enjoyed many different levels of success before arriving in Melbourne, and it has never seemed to deter him with a major trophy on the line.

Djokovic’s Australian Open titles – results from event prior

Year	Event Prior	Year	Event Prior
2023	Adelaide Title	2015	Doha QF
2021	ATP Cup RR (2-0)	2013	Didn’t play
2020	ATP Cup Title (6-0)	2012	Didn’t play
2019	Doha SF	2011	Didn’t play
2016	Doha Title	2008	Didn’t play

In some cases — nine to be exact — Djokovic has not competed at all ahead of the Australian Open. He captured the Norman Brookes Challenge Cup on four of those occasions, in 2008 and each year from 2011-2013.

Four years, in 2015-17 and in 2019, Djokovic played in Doha before making the trip across the ocean. Twice he won the title in Doha, in 2016 and 2017. But while he triumphed in the first of those years, he lost in the second round of the Australian Open the next.

This is the fifth consecutive season Djokovic has started in Australia with a pre-Melbourne tournament. Three times he played a teams competition, but this year the Serbian opened in Brisbane, where Djokovic fell to the big-serving Opelka.

The last time Djokovic fell in the quarter-finals of an individual knockout tournament before a Grand Slam tournament was at the 2023 Internazionali BNL d’Italia in Rome. His result at Roland Garros? A Coupe des Mousquetaires with the loss of just two sets across the fortnight.

Although Djokovic and his fans missed an opportunity to celebrate his 100th tour-level title in Brisbane, the numbers show that regardless of his performance ahead of a major, the 99-time tour-level champion has found ways to produce his best tennis at the ensuing Slam.

Djokovic is 94-9 with a record 10 titles at Melbourne Park, a jaw-dropping record he will try to improve later this month.

Novak Djokovic’s recent loss at the Brisbane International may have raised some eyebrows among tennis fans, but there’s no need to hit the panic button just yet. Here’s why his defeat is not cause for concern heading into the Australian Open:

1. Djokovic is a seasoned veteran: As a 20-time Grand Slam champion and former world No. 1, Djokovic has proven time and time again that he knows how to perform on the biggest stages. One loss in a warm-up tournament does not define his overall level of play.

2. It’s just one match: Tennis is a sport where anything can happen on any given day. Djokovic may have had an off day or faced a particularly tough opponent in Brisbane. It doesn’t necessarily indicate a downward trend in his game.

3. Djokovic’s track record at the Australian Open: Djokovic has won the Australian Open a record nine times, showcasing his dominance at the first Grand Slam of the year. He knows how to peak at the right time and perform at his best when it matters most.

4. Djokovic’s mental toughness: One of Djokovic’s greatest strengths is his mental fortitude. He has the ability to bounce back from losses and setbacks, using them as motivation to improve and come back stronger.

In conclusion, while Djokovic’s loss in Brisbane may have been surprising, it’s important not to read too much into it. He remains one of the greatest players in the history of the sport and is more than capable of putting this setback behind him as he prepares for the Australian Open. Expect Djokovic to come out firing on all cylinders when the first Grand Slam of the year kicks off.

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January 4, 2025

Wimbledon champion’s coach suspended amid investigation ahead of Australian Open

Stefano Vukov, right, has been provisionally suspended by the WTA after being rehired by Elena Rybakina only last week – Getty Images/Tim Clayton

The former coach of 2022 Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina has been provisionally suspended while under investigation for an alleged breach of the WTA Code, it was revealed on Friday, only a couple of days after Rybakina had announced his return to her team.

Stefano Vukov had coached Rybakina for five years until they stopped working together shortly before August’s US Open. In an unexpected move, she then posted on Wednesday that “I am excited to announce that Stefano will be joining the team for the 2025 season”, without explaining what role he would be performing. Another former Wimbledon champion, Goran Ivanisevic, is now registered as her coach.

In a statement, a WTA spokesperson said: “The WTA can confirm that Stefano Vukov is currently under a provisional suspension pending an independent investigation into a potential breach of the WTA Code of Conduct.

“As part of the provisional suspension, Mr Vukov is not eligible to obtain a WTA credential at this time. While the WTA does not typically comment on active investigations, we believe it is necessary to clarify this matter due to recent public statements that misrepresent the situation. We will not provide further details at this point in time.”

The WTA’s reference to “recent public statements” is thought to refer to social-media activity around Vukov’s return, including a critical tweet on Wednesday from Pam Shriver, the former Wimbledon doubles champion.

Telegraph Sport has contacted Vukov for comment. Responding to the news, he told The Athletic website that he had “definitely never abused anyone”.

The investigation into Vukov is understood to have been ongoing for some time, and a final decision on whether he will be able to receive a credential is expected to be made before the Australian Open starts in Melbourne on Sunday week. Telegraph Sport understands that the case is being handled personally by the new WTA chief executive Portia Archer.

Suspensions of coaches are extremely unusual in tennis, but the WTA recently produced a new code of conduct document which was circulated to employees late last month.

Were Vukov to be denied a credential for the Australian Open, he would not be able to sit in Rybakina’s player box during the tournament, although she could still provide him with tickets to attend her matches as a spectator.

According to sources close to the situation, Ivanisevic was caught unawares by Vukov’s reappearance within Rybakina’s team. While the return of a former coach places Ivanisevic in an awkward situation, he is continuing to fulfil his role as Rybakina – who has won her first three matches of the new season in straight sets – prepares to face world No 2 Iga Swiatek in a United Cup match in Sydney tomorrow.

Vukov was reported to be flying from Dubai to Australia on Thursday.

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The tennis world was rocked today as news broke that the coach of the reigning Wimbledon champion has been suspended amid an investigation ahead of the Australian Open.

The coach, whose name has not been released, is being investigated for alleged violations of the sport’s code of conduct. The specifics of the allegations have not been disclosed, but the tennis community is buzzing with speculation and rumors.

This shocking development comes just weeks before the start of the Australian Open, one of the sport’s most prestigious tournaments. The Wimbledon champion, who has not been implicated in the investigation, will now have to navigate the uncertainty surrounding their coach as they prepare to defend their title.

Fans and fellow players are eagerly awaiting more information about the situation and wondering how it will impact the Wimbledon champion’s performance at the Australian Open. Stay tuned for updates as this story continues to unfold.

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January 4, 2025
Where will Novak Djokovic be seeded at Australian Open 2025 draw and what will it mean for his chances at Grand Slam?

Novak Djokovic will enter the 2025 season with the goal of winning a record 25th Grand Slam title.

The 37-year-old went without a major for the first time in five years in 2024.

However, with Andy Murray in his corner, he will be looking to break Margaret Court’s all-time record at the Australian Open, which starts on January 12, live on Eurosport and discovery+.

Djokovic is a 10-time champion in Melbourne, but is set to enter a Grand Slam with his lowest seeding since Wimbledon 2018, which could complicate his path to glory.

Seventh seed for Djokovic?

Djokovic fell down the rankings at the back end of 2024 as he played just one tournament after the US Open. He ended the year ranked at No. 7, his lowest ranking position in two years.

He could slip further by the time of the Australian Open as Alex de Minaur is not too far behind in the world rankings.

Djokovic’s ranking will depend on how he performs at the Brisbane International and how De Minaur’s Australia get on at the United Cup.

Djokovic will not be able to improve his seeding position and overtake sixth-placed Casper Ruud.

Djokovic has not been seeded as low as seventh at a Grand Slam since Wimbledon 2018, when he was the 20th seed.

That seeding didn’t hold him back as he went on to win the title, but it could make things more challenging at the Australian Open.

As the seventh seed, he could face either of the top two seeds – currently Jannik Sinner or Alexander Zverev – in the quarter-finals, a round earlier than if he was seeded in the top four.

He could then meet third seed Carlos Alcaraz in the semi-finals if he is drawn on the same half as Djokovic.

Djokovic’s potential route would not get any harder if he is the eighth seed.

Henman ‘intrigued’ by Djokovic-Murray partnership

Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray will partner up at the Australian Open as the former looks to claim a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title.

Murray, who retired earlier this year, will coach the legendary Serbian in a surprising move which Eurosport expert Tim Henman has been left “intrigued” by.

“Who’s going to shout at who?” Henman said when asked how he feels Murray will react from the box if Djokovic starts shouting at him at the Australian Open, live on Eurosport and discovery+.

Wilander on what Murray will bring to Djokovic’s game and how it could test their relationship

Video credit: Eurosport

“I’m definitely intrigued,” he added. “That’s why I want to see Djokovic struggle a little bit in those early matches so that there’s a bit of tension, a bit of adversity, hopefully a bit of shouting and screaming at the box.

“And we can see how Andy Murray deals with it being on the receiving end. But it’s going to be fun to watch.”

Kyrgios is making his return to the court after playing just one match in the last two years due to injuries.

Watch the 2025 Australian Open live on Eurosport and discovery+

As the Australian Open 2025 draw approaches, the question on everyone’s mind is where will Novak Djokovic be seeded? With his incredible track record at the Grand Slam event, Djokovic’s seeding will undoubtedly have a major impact on his chances of adding another title to his already impressive resume.

Currently ranked as the World No. 1, Djokovic is likely to be seeded highly in the tournament. If he secures the top seed, he will be placed in the opposite half of the draw from his biggest rivals, giving him a potentially easier path to the final. This could significantly boost his chances of claiming another Australian Open title.

On the other hand, if Djokovic is seeded lower than expected, he may face tougher opponents earlier in the tournament, making his path to the final much more challenging. However, as a player known for his mental toughness and ability to perform under pressure, Djokovic has proven time and time again that he is capable of overcoming any obstacles in his way.

Regardless of his seeding, one thing is for certain – Novak Djokovic will be a force to be reckoned with at the Australian Open 2025. His incredible skill, determination, and experience make him a formidable opponent for anyone in the draw. Tennis fans around the world will be eagerly watching to see where Djokovic is seeded and how it will impact his chances of securing another Grand Slam title.

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January 3, 2025
Chad Morgan dies aged 91: Australian country music icon whose teeth inspired classic Barry Humphries character passes away on New Year’s Day
By KATE DENNETT FOR DAILY MAIL AUSTRALIA

Published: 17:46 EST, 1 January 2025 | Updated: 05:03 EST, 2 January 2025

Country music star Chad Morgan has died at the age of 91.

The singer died in hospital at Gin Gin near Bundaberg in Queensland on the evening of New Year’s Day, according to the ABC.

Chad, known fondly by his well-known nickname ‘The Sheik of Scrubby Creek’, was one of the best-known pioneers in Australian country music.

His son Chad Junior confirmed his father’s passing and tributes quickly flooded in for the nationally beloved music icon.

Country singer Evelyn Bury, who was a good friend of Chad’s, described the singer as a ‘beautiful larrikin’ in a heartfelt tribute.

‘There’ll never be another Chad,’ she added.

Country music star Chad Morgan (pictured in 2010) has died at the age of 91. He passed away in hospital at Gin Gin near Bundaberg in Queensland on the evening of New Year’s Day

Chad was one of the best-known pioneers in Australian country music. He is pictured being presented with a lifetime achievement award at the 38th CMAA Country Music Awards of Australia in 2004

Chad was born in 1933 and raised in the South Burnett town of Wondai by his grandparents.

He worked cutting timber and sugar before he was discovered through Australia’s Amateur Hour radio program and launched his music career.

‘I went into the air force in ’52 and mates heard me singing and they dared me to go on Amateur Hour and it snowballed from there,’ Chad previously told the ABC.

He started recording with Regal Zonophone and in 1958, he released his debut album The Sheik of Scrubby Creek, the title of which refers to his well-known nickname.

Chad had a hugely successful country music career spanning more than 70 years and has played all over Australia at almost every venue from pubs to the Sydney Opera House.

He was also a regular on Reg Lindsay’s Country and Western Hour and was beloved for his signature sense of humour.

He is best-known for his comedic country tracks including I’m My Own Grandpa, The Shotgun Wedding, Double Decker Blowflies and There’s Life In The Old Dog Yet.

As well as his hugely successful career, Chad’s distinctive teeth were also believed to have inspired Barry Humphries iconic character Les Patterson.

Last year, there was a push to induct Chad (pictured in 2017) into the Australian ARIA Hall of Fame led by Anna Rose, who wrote a biography about his life and career

As well as his hugely successful career, Chad’s distinctive teeth also reportedly inspired Barry Humphries iconic character Les Patterson (pictured)

Chad boasts platinum and gold album sales and was inducted into the Tamworth Hands of Fame in 1979.

In 2004, he received a Medal of the Order of Australia and he was also recognised with a lifetime achievement award at the 2010 Country Music Association of Australia Awards.

Last year, there was a push to induct Chad into the Australian ARIA Hall of Fame led by Anna Rose, who wrote a biography about his life and career.

‘I think it’s an absolute tragedy that he’s got to the age of 90 and has not been put into the hall of fame. So many others have,’ Anna told The Senior.

‘And I’m wondering how many of those have a 70-year career that’s been exceptional. And he’s known not just all over Australia but all over the world.’

In his personal life, Chad married fellow singer Pam Mitchell and they went on to welcome three children – Allan, Chad Jr and Janelle.

After their split, Chad went on to re-marry Joan Morgan when he was in his 50s and they were together for more than 30 years until her death in 2017.

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Chad Morgan dies aged 91: Australian country music icon whose teeth inspired classic Barry Humphries character passes away on New Year’s Day

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Australian country music legend Chad Morgan at the age of 91. The iconic singer, known for his unique style and humorous lyrics, died on New Year’s Day, leaving behind a legacy that will forever be remembered in the world of music.

Morgan’s career spanned over six decades, with hits such as “The Sheik of Scrubby Creek” and “The Shotgun Wedding” solidifying his place in Australian music history. But perhaps his most memorable feature was his distinctive set of teeth, which famously inspired Barry Humphries’ character Sir Les Patterson.

Fans and fellow musicians alike are mourning the loss of a true Australian music icon. Our thoughts are with Morgan’s family and loved ones during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Chad Morgan, your music will live on forever.

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January 2, 2025
Australian country music icon Chad Morgan dies after 70-year career
Larrikin country music singer Chad Morgan — fondly known as the “Sheik of Scrubby Creek” — has died aged 91.

The Australian country music icon died in hospital at Gin Gin near Bundaberg in Queensland on the evening of January 1, 2025.

Son Chad Junior confirmed his father’s death to the ABC as tributes flowed for the man who provided joy, laughter, and entertainment to generations of fans.

Chad Morgan is described as one of a kind. (Supplied: John Elliot)

Fellow country singer and good friend Evelyn Bury described Morgan as a “beautiful larrikin”.

“There’ll never be another Chad,” she said.

Country music star Troy Cassar-Daley posted to social media that Morgan was one of the funniest comedic minds he had ever witnessed on stage.

“He was always such an individual, that’s what endeared him to so many in our industry,” he wrote.

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One of Australian country music’s most recognisable pioneers, Morgan was born in the South Burnett town of Wondai in 1933.

Raised by his grandparents, Morgan worked cutting timber and sugar around Childers before he was discovered through Australia’s Amateur Hour radio program and started recording with Regal Zonophone.

Chad Morgan’s cover for his “best of” vinyl. (Supplied)

Wearing his upturned hat with a safety pin and brandishing a signature smile, Morgan recorded and performed music for more than 70 years.

He released his first album in 1952.

“I went into the air force in ’52 and mates heard me singing and they dared me to go on Amateur Hour and it snowballed from there,” he said of his career in an ABC interview at Tamworth in 2016.

Celebrated career

Morgan has platinum and gold album sales and has played all over Australia in all of manner of places, from tents to trucks, clubs, pubs and festivals to the Sydney Opera House.

He was the king of the country comedy genre with his songs The Sheik of Scrubby Creek, I’m My Own Grandpa, The Shotgun Wedding, Double Decker Blowflies and There’s Life In The Old Dog Yet.

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Morgan was inducted into the Tamworth Hands of Fame in 1979, the Roll of Renown in 1987 and received a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in 2004.

He was recognised with a lifetime achievement award at the 2010 Country Music Association of Australia Awards.

One of Morgan’s final interviews was recorded at the opening of a permanent exhibition in his honour at Childers in August.

‘Larger than life’

Photographer John Elliot grew up in Blackall, outback Queensland, and remembers his first Chad Morgan show.

“He was larger than life — terrified the hell out of me when I was four or five,” he said.

“He just didn’t seem real, he was so different from all the other performers.”

Mr Elliot described Morgan as the original rockstar, the original punk.

Chad Morgan has been described as a “beautiful larrikin”. (Supplied: John Elliot)

Throughout Mr Elliot’s career photographing country music artists across Australia, he and Morgan built a relationship through the lens.

Mr Elliot said driving was Morgan’s choice of transport while touring the country throughout his career.

“One of our mutual friends said Chad was doing this long before rock stars hired Taragos to go to shows,” he said.

“They drove their cars through every dirty road across Australia. I think I talked him into flying to Winton [the last time], but driving was his preferred form of transport.

“Chad Morgan may be good, but I don’t think they’ll be making another one.”

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Australian country music icon Chad Morgan, who has died at the age of 88 after a remarkable 70-year career in the music industry. Known for his distinctive bushman’s hat, toothless grin, and cheeky sense of humour, Morgan was a beloved figure in the Australian country music scene.

Morgan, who was born in Wondai, Queensland in 1933, first burst onto the music scene in the 1950s and quickly became known for his unique style of comedy-infused country music. Over the course of his career, he released countless albums and singles, earning a legion of devoted fans along the way.

Throughout his career, Morgan received numerous accolades and awards for his contributions to Australian country music, including being inducted into the Australian Country Music Roll of Renown in 1987. He continued to perform and record music well into his later years, delighting audiences with his infectious energy and charm.

Morgan will be remembered not only for his musical talents but also for his larger-than-life personality and his unwavering dedication to his craft. He leaves behind a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire and entertain audiences for generations to come.

Our thoughts are with Morgan’s family, friends, and fans during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Chad Morgan – you will be deeply missed.

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January 2, 2025
Chad Morgan, Australian country music star, dies aged 91 | Australian music

Australian country music singer Chad Morgan, known as the “Sheik of Scrubby Creek” after one of his most famous songs, has died aged 91.

Known for his humorous country songs and toothy smile – which inspired Barry Humphries’ design for his character Sir Les Patterson – Morgan’s music career spanned more than 70 years, releasing his first album in 1952. He was dubbed the “clown prince of comedy” by country music legend Slim Dusty.

Morgan died in a hospital at Gin Gin in Queensland on Wednesday, his son Chad Junior confirmed to the ABC.

Country music star Troy Cassar-Daley remembered Morgan as “so funny and whip smart”.

“He always surprised me when he hit the stage at how many generations loved him,” he wrote on Instagram. “Rest easy old mate, the show is over and the curtains are closed now.”

Morgan was born in Wondai, Queensland in 1933 and was working in the Royal Australian air force when he was went on talent quest radio program Australia’s Amateur Hour, having been dared to enter by his friends in his unit.

“Never dare me to do anything,” he told the State Library of Queensland in 2018. “I got into the semi-finals and I had to go to Sydney for that … when I did the show down there, someone from the record company heard me and they offered to record me … all my life that was my one ambition, was to record for [country label] Regal Zonophone.”

Morgan’s best known songs included The Sheik of Scrubby Creek, I’m My Own Grandpa, The Shotgun Wedding, Double Decker Blowflies and There’s Life In The Old Dog Yet. He also contributed one verse to the Gordon Parsons song A Pub with No Beer.

In 2009, he wrote a song about his Aboriginal heritage, The Ballad of Bill and Eva, named for his grandparents and recorded with his granddaughter Caitlin.

Morgan toured until 2024, announcing his retirement at the age of 91 in April. Over his long career he performed everywhere around Australia from tiny country festivals to the Sydney Opera House, where he played four encores.

After false rumours of his death began to spread in 2008, Morgan’s life inspired a documentary film titled I’m Not Dead Yet.

He was inducted into the Tamworth Hands of Fame in 1979 and the Roll of Renown in 1987. He received a medal of the Order of Australia in 2004, a lifetime achievement award at the 2010 Country Music Association of Australia awards, and another at the 2018 Queensland Music awards.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Australian country music legend, Chad Morgan, at the age of 91. Known for his distinctive bush ballads and comedic songs, Morgan was a beloved figure in the Australian music industry for over six decades.

Born in Wondai, Queensland in 1933, Morgan began his music career in the 1950s and quickly rose to fame with hits such as “The Sheik of Scrubby Creek” and “The Shotgun Wedding”. His unique style of storytelling and humor endeared him to audiences across the country, earning him the nickname “The Clown Prince of Australian Country Music”.

Morgan’s impact on the Australian music scene was immense, with his influence being felt by generations of musicians. He was inducted into the Australian Roll of Renown in 1987 and was awarded the Order of Australia Medal in 2003 for his contribution to the music industry.

Our thoughts are with Chad Morgan’s family, friends, and fans during this difficult time. His legacy will live on through his music, which will continue to inspire and entertain audiences for years to come. Rest in peace, Chad Morgan.

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January 2, 2025
Maya Joint to announce Australian Open credentials against Victoria Azarenka
But Joint said she would take heed from the last time she fought such a high-calibre opponent – her round-two US Open loss to Madison Keys – as she plotted a boilover.

“I’m really excited to play her. I’ll think back to my Madison Keys match – that was a great experience – and hopefully I can play well again.

“There were a lot of things I saw that I needed to improve in my own game to be competitive with those sorts of players.

“I had seen the draw beforehand, and it definitely motivated me to win this match more. I’m just excited to see how my game matches up against hers.”

It took just one grand slam victory for Joint to experience the wave of emotions that come off the tennis circuit – breakthrough elation followed by an immediate dilemma.

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She emerged victorious in the opening round of the 2024 US Open against Laura Siegemund, before suffering a 6-4, 6-0 defeat to 14th seed Keys.

But as she was set to play for the University of Texas Longhorns, Joint was unable to claim the $A207,000 payday from that win under National Collegiate Athletics Association rules.

But Joint has persevered, having garnered a wildcard to the Australian Open in what will be her debut in the tournament’s main draw.

And she believes the foundations laid at the Brisbane International will determine how far she can go in Melbourne.

“This tournament is super important … and I’m glad I got a good win under my belt, so I’ll take confidence from that,” Joint said.

“I’m excited, it will be my first main draw Aussie Open, but I can take confidence from my US Open main draw win.”

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Maya Joint ready to showcase her Australian Open credentials against Victoria Azarenka

Get ready tennis fans, because Maya Joint is about to take on former world No. 1 Victoria Azarenka in a highly anticipated match at the Australian Open. With her powerful serve, lightning-fast footwork, and unwavering determination, Maya is ready to prove herself on one of the biggest stages in tennis.

As a rising star in the sport, Maya has been making waves on the professional circuit and has already shown that she has what it takes to compete with the best. Now, she is set to face off against Azarenka, a seasoned veteran with multiple Grand Slam titles to her name.

But Maya is not one to back down from a challenge. She has been putting in the hard work and training tirelessly to ensure she is at the top of her game for this crucial match. With the support of her fans behind her, Maya is confident that she can come out on top and make a statement at the Australian Open.

So mark your calendars and tune in to watch Maya Joint take on Victoria Azarenka in what is sure to be an epic showdown. Let’s show our support for Maya as she continues to chase her dreams and make her mark in the world of tennis. Go Maya! #AustralianOpen #MayaJoint #TennisSuperstar

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January 2, 2025
Australian Open in doubt for Alexander Zverev? World No.2 out of United Cup with bicep injury

World No.2 Alexander Zverev is a potential doubt for the 2025 Australian Open after abruptly having to withdraw from the United Cup in Perth heading into the New Year.

Zverev withdrew from the mixed teams tournament on Wednesday with a biceps strain less than two weeks before the start of the main event at Melbourne Park.

The 27-year-old won his opening two singles matches of the new season defeating Thiago Monteiro and Zhizhen Zhang in the United Cup. He was scheduled to face Alexander Shevchenko of Kazakhstan in Perth in the Quarter-Finals but he withdrew at the last minute.

This allowed Elena Rybakina to steal a march as she easily toppled Laura Siegemund 6-3, 6-1 as Shevchenko also came from a set down to beat Masur.

“Alexander Zverev has withdrawn from the United Cup due to a bicep strain,” organizers said. “Daniel Masur will take his place for Team Germany in today´s singles match against Kazakhstan.”

A runner-up in the 2020 US Open and 2024 French Open, it is not a move that he would want going into 2025 and also sent the defending United Cup champions stumbling towards the exit door.

It seems like Alexander Zverev’s participation in the upcoming Australian Open is in doubt as the World No.2 player has been forced to withdraw from the United Cup due to a bicep injury. This news has raised concerns among his fans and tennis enthusiasts about whether he will be able to recover in time for the Grand Slam tournament.

Zverev’s absence from the United Cup, which is a warm-up event for the Australian Open, is a major setback for the German player. The bicep injury has sidelined him from the competition and has raised questions about his fitness and readiness for the upcoming tournament.

The Australian Open is one of the most prestigious events in the tennis calendar and fans were eagerly anticipating Zverev’s performance. However, with this recent injury, there are doubts about whether he will be able to compete at his best level.

Zverev’s team has not provided any further details about the severity of the injury or his expected recovery timeline. It remains to be seen if he will be able to recover in time for the Australian Open or if he will have to withdraw from the tournament.

Fans and fellow players are sending their well wishes to Zverev for a speedy recovery, hoping that he will be able to overcome this setback and return to the court soon. Stay tuned for further updates on Zverev’s condition and his participation in the Australian Open.

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Australian Open, Alexander Zverev, World No.2, United Cup, bicep injury, tennis, sports injury, tournament update

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January 1, 2025
Nick Kyrgios and Novak Djokovic win first doubles match at Brisbane International ahead of Australian Open | Tennis News
Nick Kyrgios made a winning return to tennis as he partnered with Novak Djokovic in a blockbuster doubles pairing as the Brisbane International.

Kyrgios, who had not played for 18 months, and Djokovic beat Alexander Erler and Andreas Mies 6-4 6-7 (4-7) 10-8 to the delight of the crowd in Brisbane.

The fans were treated to some spectacular moments including an around-the-net winner from Djokovic and a tweener from Kyrgios.

Djokovic beat Kyrgios in the 2022 Wimbledon final and the pair have developed a close friendship since then.

“That was awesome! An amazing atmosphere. Great to be back,” said Djokovic.

“I want to thank Nick for playing. He said the other day it should be a pleasure to play with him and it is!

“I’m glad to share the court with him on his comeback. I haven’t played many doubles matches, so whatever Nick was saying I was following.”

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Kyrgios loved Djokovic’s round-the-net shot

Kyrgios added: “I was surprised he doubted himself a little bit in some moments and I was like ‘brother, you’re the greatest of all time, go for it, do what you have to do’.

“I was looking around at all the fans and this beautiful stadium. This injury has been brutal for me, so I wasn’t taking this for granted. I don’t know how many Aussie summers I’ve got left.

“We promised we were going to do this one time before he goes or I go.”

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Kyrgios showed everyone what they’ve been missing as he won a point in his doubles match with Djokovic with a lovely tweener lob

Kyrgios will make his first singles appearance since June 2023 on Tuesday, live on Sky Sports Tennis, when he plays France’s Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, while Djokovic will face Australia’s Rinky Hijikata.

Djokovic and Kyrgios will return to men’s doubles action on Wednesday against top seeds Nikola Mektic and Michael Venus.

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Kyrgios said he’s trying to be professional after fans were calling for him to make underarm serves, while Djokovic said it was a pleasure to play to with him, after their doubles win in Brisbane

Norrie sees off Tien in Hong Kong

At the Hong Kong Open, Britain’s Cameron Norrie kicked off his 2025 season with a 6-3 7-5 win over ATP Next Gen finalist Learner Tien.

Norrie struggled with injury throughout 2024, missing the North American swing in the summer, including the US Open.

However, he was runner-up at the Moselle Open in November and has finished the calendar year on a high.

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“That was a tough match throughout. I played a high level throughout,” said Norrie, who will play Italy’s Lorenzo Sonego in the next round on Wednesday.

“He’s a top player and is a young and up and coming player. He was very calm. I was down a break in the second set but got fortunate at 5-5 and served it out.”

Watch the United Cup, plus ATP and WTA events Brisbane, Auckland and Hong Kong this week live on Sky Sports Tennis. Stream Sky Sports with NOW – No contract, cancel anytime

In a thrilling start to the 2022 season, Nick Kyrgios and Novak Djokovic teamed up to win their first doubles match at the Brisbane International. The dynamic duo showcased their incredible chemistry on the court, defeating their opponents with a combination of power and finesse.

Fans were treated to an exciting display of tennis as Kyrgios and Djokovic displayed their exceptional skills and teamwork. The victory serves as a strong statement ahead of the upcoming Australian Open, with both players looking to make a strong impact in the singles and doubles events.

Kyrgios, known for his powerful serves and flashy shot-making, complemented Djokovic’s steady and consistent play perfectly. The two superstars showed that they are a force to be reckoned with in the doubles format, and their performance has certainly raised expectations for their upcoming matches.

As they continue their partnership at the Brisbane International and beyond, fans can expect more exciting and entertaining tennis from Kyrgios and Djokovic. With their impressive start to the season, the duo is poised to make a deep run in the doubles competition and add another title to their already illustrious careers.

Stay tuned for more updates on Nick Kyrgios and Novak Djokovic’s journey at the Brisbane International and the Australian Open as they look to make a lasting impact on the tennis world.

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December 31, 2024
Marie Bouzkova outlasts Australian wildcard in Brisbane opener
The Czech Republic’s Marie Bouzkova outlasted Australian wildcard Talia Gibson 7-6 (7/5), 3-6, 6-3 in a three-hour marathon in the opening round of the Brisbane International on Sunday.

World No. 44 Bouzkova was expected to have a comfortable opener against the 20-year-old Australian, but was pushed all the way by the big-hitting Gibson.

She will now play seventh-seeded Latvian Jelena Ostapenko in the second round of the season-opening tournament.

“She has so much power so I was behind in a lot of the rallies,” Bouzkova said.

“I’m just happy that I could get a lot of balls back and fight with everything I have.”

READ: Djokovic says Murray bringing unique perspective as new coach

In other matches, McCartney Kessler of the United States pulled off an upset when she downed Poland’s world number 38 Magda Linette in straight sets 6-4, 6-4.

The 25-year-old American will now play 15th seed Yulia Putintseva of Kazakhstan in the second round.

Mexico’s Renata Zarazua set up a second round clash against world number one Aryna Sabalenka with a 6-0, 6-3 win over Bulgaria’s Viktoriya Tomova.

Australian Maya Joint beat fellow countrywoman Maddison Inglis 6-3, 6-4, Armenian Elina Avanesyan downed Slovakia’s Rebecca Sramkova 1-6, 6-2, 6-2 and Russia’s Anna Blinkova was too good for Czech player Sara Bejlek 6-1, 7-6 (7/5).

American Ashlyn Krueger saw off Japan’s Moyuka Uchijima 6-3, 1-6, 6-3 and Dutchwoman Suzan Lamens downed Kamilla Rakhimova 6-2, 6-4.

Marie Bouzkova, the rising tennis star from the Czech Republic, showcased her resilience and skill as she outlasted Australian wildcard in the opening round of the Brisbane International.

In a thrilling match that had fans on the edge of their seats, Bouzkova displayed her determination and composure as she fought back from a set down to secure a hard-fought victory. With her powerful groundstrokes and strategic play, Bouzkova proved why she is a force to be reckoned with on the court.

The win marks a strong start to the season for Bouzkova, who is looking to build on her success from last year. With her impressive performance in Brisbane, she has set the tone for what promises to be an exciting year ahead.

Congratulations to Marie Bouzkova on her well-deserved win, and we look forward to seeing more impressive performances from her in the upcoming tournaments. Keep an eye out for this talented player as she continues to make her mark on the tennis world.

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December 31, 2024