Novak Djokovic is back in action and pain-free, reassuring fans and the tennis world that he has fully recovered from the injury that forced him to withdraw from the Australian Open. The 24-time Grand Slam champion made his return to the court in Doha, teaming up with Fernando Verdasco in doubles at the 2025 Qatar Open—and their performance was nothing short of dominant.
Djokovic and Verdasco dismantled Alexander Bublik and Karen Khachanov in the first round of the ATP 500 event, delivering a 6-1, 6-1 statement victory. More importantly, the Serbian superstar reported no pain or discomfort, clearing the way for his highly anticipated return to singles action against Matteo Berrettini.
‘I Have No Concerns’ – Djokovic Feels 100% Fit Again
Speaking to the media after the doubles match, Djokovic provided an update on his recovery, confirming that he has been training intensively over the past 10 days and is now feeling fully fit for the tournament.
“I haven’t felt any pain, so I’ve been feeling great training the past 10 days, and past three days here in Doha.”
“Today’s doubles match—obviously, it’s different from singles—but it’s still a match, and you do have very dynamic movements on the court, where you kind of test your body and how it feels. It felt great, so I have no concern.”
The world No. 1 also emphasized that he took his time recovering before ramping up his training.
“I obviously focused mostly on my recovery of the muscle tear that I had. I recovered very well, then I started to train. So I’ve been training tennis, I’ve been training for the past 10 days or so. I did quite a bit of fitness, and spent time with my family in my country, and here I am.”
This confirmation comes as a major relief to Djokovic’s fans, who were concerned about his fitness after he withdrew from the Australian Open for the first time in his career due to a hamstring injury.
Doha Has Been a Special Place for Djokovic
Djokovic has a strong history at the Qatar Open, a tournament where he has never lost before the quarter-finals and has lifted the trophy twice.
“I always enjoyed myself here. The tournament was played in the first week of the season, prior to Australia, so it was actually a great week for all of us preparing for the Australian Open.”
The hardcourt conditions in Doha have traditionally suited Djokovic’s game, making it an ideal setting for his return to singles competition.
Still Hungry for Competition: ‘I Still Feel the Jitters’
Even after more than two decades on the ATP Tour and 24 Grand Slam titles, Djokovic admitted that he still gets nervous before matches—something he considers a positive sign that his competitive fire still burns strong.
“I feel the cramps in my stomach before every match. I’m stressed, I’m nervous, I’m excited. It’s a good sign.”
“Because after all of these years of competing on the Tour and everything I achieved, I still feel that, I still feel the jitters.”
Djokovic went on to say that his continued presence in professional tennis is bigger than just personal success, believing that his longevity can help inspire the next generation of players.
“It’s a good sign because I still care about doing this, and I feel and I hope that my active career that keeps going is also positively affecting the overall tennis ecosystem.”
“I like to believe that. And hopefully inspiring younger generations to come and watch tennis, grab a tennis racquet, participate in our sport in any shape or form.”
Next Up: A Blockbuster Battle with Berrettini
Djokovic’s first real test of the tournament will come against Matteo Berrettini, a player he famously defeated in the 2021 Wimbledon final.
Berrettini, once a top-10 mainstay, has struggled with injuries and consistency in recent years but remains a dangerous opponent on hard courts.
With Djokovic back at full strength, this matchup promises to be an exciting clash and a true test of his recovery as he looks to make a statement in his first singles match of 2025.
Can Djokovic pick up right where he left off, or will Berrettini spring a surprise? One thing is certain: The King is back, and he’s ready to rule again.