Every sport has that one player who keeps battling all odds to come on top, or at least never gives up. In tennis, that position is easily occupied by Novak Djokovic. The former World No. 1 has been nothing short of commendable against the young talents on the tour and he doesn’t plan to stop. Following his tour-level title deficit in the 2024 season, Nole’s decisiveness to bring about a positive change and staying committed recently received a thumbs up from several American ex-pros.

Djokovic was far from his best on the Grand Slam stage last year. Though he proved himself at the Paris Olympics where he concluded his long-drawn quest for the gold elusive gold, his performance on the ATP remained underwhelming nonetheless. Of all the four Slams, the Serb only managed to reach the final of Wimbledon – for the second consecutive year – before bowing out to Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz. He even pulled out of the season-ending ATP Finals in Turin.

However, poised to bring about a change in 2025, Djokovic partnered with arch-rival Andy Murray for their maiden coaching debut at the Australian Open. While experts analyze the Serbian star’s Slam-winning chances in the season, Americans John Isner, Sam Querry, Jack Sock, and Steve Johnson opined that he won’t waste his potential in the ongoing season. For those unaware, the former World No. 1 will launch his campaign for a historic 25th Slam in Melbourne on January 12.

During a conversation on the ‘Nothing Major’ podcast, the group discussed whether German Alexander Zverev, Nole, or an American tops the Slam stage. After acknowledging the Serb’s impeccable record of 24 Majors, they outlined: “If I had to bet, Djokovic wins a Slam. I’m gonna go with Djokovic as well, he’s got too legitimate chances with Australia and Wimbledon given how dominant he’s been at those two tournaments.” 

Unfortunately, Djokovic’s bucket list goal for a 100th ATP title at the Brisbane International recently went south. He lost in the event’s quarterfinals. Moreover, his loss is also coated with guilt.

Novak Djokovic discusses challenges of balancing tennis career with family commitments

Serbian superstar Novak Djokovic has been quite vocal about his thoughts about spending time away from family amid his touring schedule. Though his family of four, including his wife Jelena and two children, Stefan and Tara, often accompany him during his on-court adventures, those outings aren’t nearly enough. And, it hardly makes up for the quality time lost due to his professional life.

Seeing as he isn’t ready to retire just yet, Nole has to make way for enduring such emotions while staying composed on the court. During his appearance at the Davis Cup in 2024, the Serb revealed the internal conflict he faces due to time away from loved ones. He candidly expressed the situation after underscoring the challenge faced by almost every player striving to balance their professional life and family: “Being absent from the children is not something that makes me very happy.”

With promising updates surrounding his coaching camp and positive form in Brisbane, Djokovic will next play in the Melbourne Slam.