New Strategy? Novak Djokovic's big schedule changes for the new season as he confirms Doha Open appearance
ATP
The 24-time
Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic has been confirmed in the entry list for the
ATP 500 Qatar Open in February 2025. The Serbian player is returning to the
Doha five years later, marking a new shift in his calendar compared to
recent years.
The
38-year-old has typically taken a few weeks off after the Australian Open,
which ends on January 26, since 2017, making some appearances in Dubai in the
last week of February (2020, 2022, 2023). In the other years, he has remained
out of competition until Indian Wells in March.
Djokovic to play Doha Open in February
This time,
he will play the Doha Open again after five years, which will take place from
February 14, shortening his rest period after the Aussie Open. In his previous
participation in 2019, the tournament was in a different position on the
calendar, as it was held in the first week of January, serving as a preparatory
tournament for the year's first Grand Slam.
This year,
Djokovic seems willing to make the necessary changes to contend for major
titles again, which he has identified as his primary focus at this stage of his
career. His hiring of Andy Murray as a coach has signaled to his rivals that he
aims to regain ground on the Tour, and the adjustments to his calendar are more
about finding his best level of play than accumulating points for the ranking.
A week ago,
his confirmation to play in the Brisbane International before the Australian
Open raised eyebrows, unlike in 2024 when he traveled directly to Melbourne to
start the season at the first major of the year.
Djokovic's
confirmation in the tournament is not the only big name set to be part of the
draw, as he will be joined by Jannik Sinner, Daniil Medvedev, and Andrey
Rublev. This is a significant upgrade in terms of big names, considering that
last year Rublev was the only player from the top 15 in the draw. The defending
champion is Karen Khachanov, who defeated young star Jakub Mensik in the final
(7-6, 6-4).
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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