A very good start for Novak Djokovic in the new season: the Serb is trying to find his best form at the Brisbane International, to be ready to play the Australian Open.

The victory against Hijikata has brought the Serbian champion to qualify for the round of 16, where he will meet the Frenchman Gael Monfils. A very particular challenge: the two have faced each other 19 times in their career and the Serbian champion has always won.

On Thursday 2 January 2025, therefore, the former ATP number 1 can add another victory to the collection against the Frenchman and even reach 20.

“I hope he continues the series of consecutive successes and the unbeaten run against Gael,” said Nole at the press conference, talking about the next match that awaits him.

“I saw him in the locker room after our matches and we talked about it. He’s a year older than me, but he’s still strong. He’s always been one of the best athletes we have on the tour for agility, speed, strength. He’s just exceptional. Last year he beat Alcaraz in Cincinnati, who has a very similar surface speed to here.

So if you serve well and you can put pressure on your opponent, you become a tough nut to crack. He showed incredible agility and great defense, Gael is also very intelligent at the net. He’s been an all-round athlete for many years and it’s great to be able to play against him again at this level, like veterans of the game. It’ll be fun,” he added in front of the media.

The quarter-finals in the ATP 250 in Brisbane will be up for grabs, as well as valuable points for the world ranking. The crowd is hoping for an entertaining battle, full of interesting shots from the two champions: of course, Nole is the clear favorite of the match.