Novak Djokovic made a winning start to his 2025 season on New Year’s Eve in Brisbane, cruising past Australia’s Rinky Hijikata in straight sets, 6-3, 6-3, in the first round of the ATP 250 event.

It was the 1,125th tour-level win of Djokovic’s career, and kicked off his quest for the milestone 100th tour-level title of his career.

“To start off the new season with a win is very important,” Djokovic said in his on-court interview. “Also, Rinky deserves a round of applause for his performance tonight. Hopefully you guys enjoyed the match, and Happy New Year in advance for everyone!”

Djokovic came out swinging against Hijikata, winning the first seven points of the match and eventually building an early 3-0 lead. The two traded holds from there until Djokovic had the 39-minute first set.

Before then, however, Djokovic takes on Rinky Hijikata in the opening round of the Brisbane International on Tuesday.

Furthermore, Djokovic will partner Nick Kyrgios in men’s doubles, with the rivals-turned-friends taking on Alexander Erler and Andreas Mies.

The Serbian failed to win a Grand Slam title in 2025, but did manage to get his hand on Olympic gold in Paris.

Knee surgery did impact his time on the court, although he did manage to reach the Wimbledon final shortly after.

The 24-time Grand Slam champion has now discussed that scenario and indeed his season in general in his opening Brisbane International press conference.

He is likely to be fit and ready for the Australian Open after an injury-hit season, during which Djokovic reached one Grand Slam final.

The 37-year-old suffered a loss to Carlos Alcaraz in that Wimbledon clash, in what was a repeat outcome of the 2023 final.

Djokovic has hired Andy Murray as his coach to help with his preparations, with the duo set to pair in the off-season and at the first major event of the new season.

The Serbian boasts 10 Australian Open titles, more than any other player, with his 24 Grand Slams two ahead of Rafael Nadal and four ahead of Roger Federer.

And one such title was secured in what Djokovic has described as the most ‘nerve-wracking’ match of his career.

The retired WTA star, who is now a tennis analyst, thinks Djokovic will retire if he wins one of those two Grand Slam events.

Djokovic won his 24th and most recent major title at the 2023 US Open — his third Grand Slam triumph of a staggering season.

The legendary Serb holds the all-time record for men’s Grand Slam crowns, with his great former rivals Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer second and third on the list with 22 and 20 respectively.

The 37-year-old’s most successful major is the Australian Open, where he has won a record 10 men’s titles.

He holds an astonishing 94-9 (91.3%) record from his 19 appearances at the Melbourne Grand Slam, which was the site of his maiden major victory in 2008.

Wimbledon is Djokovic’s second best Grand Slam tournament for titles won (seven) and win percentage (89%). He last triumphed at the All England Club in 2022 and was a runner-up in both 2023 and 2024.