Reilly Opelka sees glimpses of Novak Djokovic in Jannik Sinner & Carlos Alcaraz; credits Serb for inspiring his own injury comeback

Reilly Opelka announced his return to the top rungs of pro tennis by downing Novak Djokovic in straight sets in the quarterfinals of the 2025 Brisbane International on Friday (January 3). Following his victory, the American lavished rich praise on the Serb for his influence on modern tennis.

Opelka didn't compete on the ATP Tour from September 2022 to July 2024 due to hip and wrist injuries. The former World No. 17 has made plenty of amends for his absence from the sport with his showing in Brisbane this week, winning his first three matches in convincing fashion.

The 27-year-old's win against Novak Djokovic on Friday, in particular, was impressive as he staved off the only break point he faced to go through 7-6(6), 6-3. During his on-court interview afterwards, the 6'11" big-hitter gave props to the 24-time Major winner, revealing that he had kept himself motivated during his injury layoff by taking inspiration from the Serb.

"I watched Novak become the greatest in my two year period off. You find yourself, ask yourself - 'What would Novak be doing in my situation?'" Reilly Opelka said in Brisbane on Friday.

The American further insisted that the 37-year-old's impact on tennis was undeniable. He also claimed that Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz had looked up to their predecessor in their early years while building the foundation of their respective playing styles.

"Even when you're in the sleeve, you're always trying to maximize and that's kind of the effect that he's had on the sport," he added. "I think that's why you see a guy like Jannik [Sinner] that reminds you a little bit of someone else ten years ago, and Carlos [Alcaraz] and stuff. That's how the sport evolves. It's competition, so."

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Reilly Opelka: "I watched Tommy Paul, Taylor Fritz, Frances Tiafoe and Ben Shelton do great"

Reilly Opelka celebrates after reaching the last four at the 2025 Brisbane International

During the interview, Reilly Opelka also looked back on his time away from tennis. The 27-year-old disclosed that while it was tough for him, watching his friends like Tommy Paul and Taylor Fritz achieve their breakthroughs last year brought him joy.

"Yeah, I mean, it was tough. A lot of uncertainty, a lot of doubt. I definitely watched a lot of my friends on TV," Opelka said. "I watched Tommy, Taylor, Frances and Ben do great, which was fun and also motivating for me. It definitely kept me interested in the sport."

Opelka will next face fast-rising Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard in the semifinals of the 2025 Brisbane International. The American will be eager to reach his seventh-career ATP final at the 250-level event later this week.