Novak Djokovic‘s start to the new season hasn’t been the way he would have liked, as he suffered a QF elimination in Brisbane. Talking about his last season, despite relying on a limited scheduling strategy, the ATP star bagged just the Olympic gold. However, the Serbian, now targeting a record-extending 11th Australian Open title and 25th Grand Slam crown, announced a surprise addition to his team. He appointed Andy Murray as his new coach. And the tennis community is quite optimistic about this new partnership.

Todd Woodbridge, a former doubles World No. 1 and a key figure at the Australian Open, recently shared his thoughts on Novak Djokovic and the current state of modern tennis. As Djokovic prepares for the Australian Open title, Woodbridge reflected on what continues to motivate the Serb maestro. “Now, what really motivates Novak Djokovic, apart from winning Grand Slams, is to prove to young players like Alcaraz and Sinner that he can still play at the highest level,” Woodbridge said.

Despite nearing 38, Djokovic’s determination remains unmatched. Woodbridge highlighted how Grand Slam victories have become the Serb’s primary focus over rankings. “The one thing that motivates him is winning Grand Slams. No one’s ever going to catch him, I think,” he stated. Reflecting on Djokovic’s performances in 2024, Woodbridge acknowledged the Serbian’s consistency. “He didn’t have the best Grand Slam run last year. But remember, he was still a finalist at Wimbledon, played well at Roland Garros, and even won the Olympics,” he said.

Woodbridge also discussed the rise of a new generation of ATP stars like Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner. Initially concerned about the post-Big Three era, he now feels confident. “I was worried at first. Were we going to lose quality in men’s tennis? But these younger players like Alcaraz and Sinner have shown extraordinary talent,” Woodbridge explained. He praised their athletic nature but pointed out areas that need improvement. “The next step for them is developing more finesse and feel. We’ve seen some players like Alcaraz use creativity effectively, but many still rely heavily on brute strength,” he stated.

Turning to the Australian Open, Woodbridge credited the tournament’s unique conditions for Djokovic’s dominance. “Novak has made the tournament his own, and the Plexicushion surface is a big part of that. It’s the perfect speed for him — fast enough for exciting rallies but balanced for all-court tennis,” he said.

Looking ahead, Woodbridge sees capability in stars like Taylor Fritz and Alex de Minaur. He highlighted de Minaur’s recent rise into the top 10 and shared his hopes for the Australian. “His challenge now is reaching a semifinal or final,” Woodbridge concluded.

Novak Djokovic’s Age-Defying Quest for More Grand Slam Glory

Novak Djokovic stands on the edge of yet another historic milestone as he gears up for the 2025 Australian Open. He holds the record of being the oldest Grand Slam singles champion in the 57 years of Open-era tennis. Yet, his hunger for greatness remains unmatched. Four months from his 38th birthday, Djokovic is chasing an 11th Australian Open title. It would also mark his 25th Grand Slam triumph, a record unmatched in tennis history. Margaret Court’s record of 24 Grand Slam titles is the last major achievement left to break for Djokovic.

“You can never count him out if everything goes right,” six-time Grand Slam champion Stefan Edberg said recently. Despite not winning a major title in 2024, Djokovic made headlines with a stunning Olympic gold victory in Paris. “Olympic gold was his target for the year, and the target was duly achieved,” Edberg further added.

With fire still burning in his belly to face fierce competition from rising stars like Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, Djokovic’s fitness keeps him in the spotlight. “He’s still extremely fit, so that’s going to give him at least a chance,” Edberg said. With smarter scheduling and a willingness to break records, Djokovic’s best opportunities lie on the hard courts of Melbourne or the grass courts of Wimbledon.

Do you think Djokovic will add another Grand Slam title to his tally in 2025? Let us know in the comments below.