Novak Djokovic has shared his feelings about teaming up with Nick Kyrgios for the doubles at the Brisbane International 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 in 2025 and the latter’s return after 18 months. Both men received a doubles wild card and faced 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, in the crowd-pleasing on-court interview, described it as a “pleasure” to play alongside Kyrgios and admitted he was mostly following the Australian’s lead while throughout the match.
“I want to thank Nick for playing. He said the other day that it would be a pleasure to play with him. And it is. It’s a pleasure,” said the Serb.
“I am happy to share the field with him on his return. I haven’t played many doubles matches in the last 5 years. Whatever Nick said, I actually followed him,” he added.
Djokovic’s comments came in response to Kyrgios’ remarks ahead of their doubles campaign in Brisbane, where the Australian told the media:
“I mean, everyone thinks it’s a pleasure to play with him, it’s actually a pleasure to play with me, let’s be real.”
Novak Djokovic and Nick Kyrgios to face Nikola Mektic and Michael Venus at 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 have received a bye and will begin their campaign on December 31.
Djokovic and Kyrgios will also begin their singles campaigns tomorrow, with the Serbian facing Rinky Hijikata and the Australian taking on Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard. After their visit to Brisbane, both will travel to Melbourne for the Australian Open, which begins on January 12.
The Serbian is aiming for a record 25th Grand Slam at the first Major of the year, where he looks to break Margaret Court’s record. With the support of tennis analysts including Serena Williams’ former coach Rennae Stubbs, he is poised to make history.
His arrival in Brisbane also caused a stir as he carried a Pokémon-inspired Pikachu backpack, leaving fans speculating about a cryptic message regarding his major tally.
Edited by Shyam Kamal
