Novak Djokovic gets backing from Daniela Hantuchova as he bids for history at Australian Open

Novak Djokovic is on the hunt for a record-extending 11th Australian Open title. In his way are a couple of strong contenders, including the defending champion Jannik Sinner, and World No. 3 Carlos Alcaraz. The former WTA World No. 5 Daniela Hantuchová recently discussed Djokovic's chances of going for his 11th Slam title Down Under.

The Serb already holds the record for the most Australian Open men's singles titles - 10 - and a victory in Melbourne will see him extend that record to 11.

While Djokovic is the most successful male player in tennis history with 24 Grand Slam titles, many believe that he might not be able to fend off the challenge posed by his younger rivals.

In light of the same, Slovakian tennis player Daniela Hantuchová, a former World No. 5, claimed that one can never limit what Djokovic can do. Speaking to Mike McIntyre in Match Point Canada this week, she said:

“I mean, with Novak nothing is impossible. I would just leave it at that... If there is one person that can reach those crazy goals once again, it's Novak.”

After an underwhelming 2024 season where he had zero ATP title wins, Novak Djokovic started his new season with impressive performances in Melbourne by earning two clinical wins in his opening rounds.

The 37-year-old came back from a set down to beat Nishesh Basavareddy in the first round and then prevailed in another four-setter against Portuguese youngster Jaime Faria in the second round.

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"Having Andy Murray next to Novak Djokovic is such a brilliant decision": Daniela Hantuchová

Andy Murray cheers for Novak Djokovic during his second-round match at the Australian Open. Source: Getty

One major change Novak Djokovic made coming into the Australian Open was appointing Andy Murray as his coach. The two former rivals are now part of the same team, which is one of the most unexpected collaborations in tennis.

During the same segment of Match Point Canada, Daniela Hantuchová endorsed the Djokovic-Murray partnership, saying

“Having Andy next to him, I think it's such a brilliant decision. In a way, it's nice to have Andy back here so it doesn't feel as lonely since Roger (Federer) and Rafa (Nadal) are not here, at least the two of them are still somehow around. And I saw an interview of Andy where he said he felt like Novak was ready,” she said.

Following his win over Grand Slam debutant Nishesh Basavareddy, Novak Djokovic also opened up about working with Andy Murray, praising the Brit for his constant support.

"At times it’s not necessary for us to exchange words because we know what happened on the court, whether it’s in the match or practice session. He’s constantly supporting and encouraging... He cares a lot and he’s putting a lot of energy into trying to make me feel good on the court. That’s what I need, honestly... Just looking for that extra motivation and I definitely have it with Andy."

Novak Djokovic will fancy his chances of surpassing Margaret Court's record of 24 Grand Slams by winning his 11th Australian Open title. The Serb will take on 26th seed Tomas Machac in the third round on Friday, January 17.