Novak Djokovic makes his feelings crystal clear about playing doubles with Nick Kyrgios in Brisbane International 2025

Novak Djokovic opened up about the opportunity to team up with Nick Kyrgios to form a dream team at the 2025 Brisbane International. The two men have arrived in Brisbane ahead of their campaigns where they will play in doubles as well as singles.

Djokovic and Kyrgios's friendship might have had a rocky start with the latter dubbing the former 'cringeworthy'. However, their relationship started a new chapter when the Aussie supported the Serb during his deportation from Australia in 2022, a controversy that stunned the tennis world.

The 24-time Grand Slam champion has arrived in Brisbane to kick off his 2025 season. He was asked by the media his initial thoughts on his return to Brissie. He said:

"It's great to be back. I haven't played in Brisbane since ATP Cup back in 2020, so it's exciting, and I'm looking forward to compete."

Djokovic was then asked to share his thoughts on his partnership with Kyrgios, to which he said that they discussed the prospect of teaming up earlier. The Serb was excited to partner up with the home favorite at the beginning of the season itself.

"Yeah, that's going to be fun. We've never teamed up, so let's see. You know, we texted about it. We spoke earlier in Wimbledon about playing together when he's back on tour, so get the first chance right away in the first week of the season, so should be fun."

Nick Kyrgios tried to one-up his doubles partner in Brisbane by jokingly saying how it was a pleasure for the Serb to play with him.

While he will be teaming up with a home favorite in doubles, the Serbian superstar will face a home favorite in singles.

Novak Djokovic will play Rinky Hijikata in the opening round of the 2025 Brisbane International

The Serb practicing ahead of Brisbane International - Source: Getty

Novak Djokovic will play home favorite Rinky Hijikata to kick off his 2025 season in singles. While the Serb is the top seed at the Brisbane International, the Aussie received a wildcard to enter the main draw. This will be the first meeting between the two men.

23-year-old Hijikata is slowly rising up the ranks and made some brilliant runs during the last season, including quarterfinal runs in Brisbane, Delray Beach, Queens, and Winston-Salem. He is currently ranked 73 in the ATP rankings.

Djokovic could play Gael Monfils in the second round and have to make it to the semifinals to meet Nick Kyrgios. Following his campaign in Brisbane, the Serb will be looking to clinch the unprecedented 25th Grand Slam in his most successful Major, the Australian Open.