With each passing day, the frenzy surrounding the 2025 Australian Open is increasing. Top players across the globe have descended Down Under to begin their preparations for the first Grand Slam tournament of the season. Among them is Novak Djokovic, who is aiming to win a record 25th Grand Slam title of his illustrious career.

The Serb has already played a warm-up tournament in Brisbane in the lead-up to the Australian Open. Hence, he looks to ramp up his preparations with an exciting adventure alongside Qinwen Zheng.

Both Djokovic and Zheng won a gold medal in singles at the Paris Olympic Games. It was one of the biggest victories of their careers and the two are set to enthrall fans Down Under. Ahead of the Australian Open, Djokovic and Zheng will participate in a charity match at the Rod Laver Arena.

The charity event named ‘A Night With Novak’ is back, with its third edition on popular demand. Moreover, the event will feature some of the biggest stars on 9th January. Playing in front of a packed 15,000 crowd, the event aims to raise funds for a range of children’s charities through the Australian Tennis Foundation.

The first match of the evening will have Djokovic teaming up with Zheng. Notably, the charismatic duo will face Andy Murray and Belinda Bencic, who have also won an Olympic gold medal. The second and final match of the evening will feature Djokovic and Murray alongside world No.1 wheelchair tennis star Tokito Oda and Australian wheelchair tennis legend Dylan Alcott.

Earlier, Nick Kyrgios was also set to feature in a singles match against Djokovic for the charity event. However, hours ago, he pulled out of the event because of an injury. Taking to social media, he said, “Unfortunately won’t be able to play my good friend @djokernole this Thursday on the 9th as I’ve had an ultrasound on my abdominal and have a grade 1 strain. Will be resting and doing everything I can to be OK by the Aus Open.”

Meanwhile, Djokovic is relishing the challenge of playing in Melbourne as he nears the end of his career. Ahead of the Australian Open, he made a candid revelation on his goals Down Under.

Novak Djokovic hopes to have the last laugh in Australia

The Serb has found immense success in Melbourne and the Australian Open is his most successful Grand Slam event. Out of the 24 major titles won by him, 10 have come at the Australian Open. As a result, he is confident about a good showing at the upcoming edition in Melbourne.

During an interview, he revealed, “Melbourne has been the most successful city or the Australian Open the most successful grand slam I’ve had in my career. I want to keep it that way, I hope to keep going,” said Nole.

He continued, “I just hope to, before I retire, get at least one more title there and that is the goal. I love playing in Rod Laver Arena, the atmosphere is so good – summer time – people love their sport in Melbourne and Australia and so I should look forward to going there.’’

However, Djokovic’s form in the lead-up to the Australian Open doesn’t look great. He lost in the quarterfinal of the Brisbane International against Reilly Opelka. Can Djokovic come back stronger and win the title in Melbourne? Let us know your views in the comments below.