Novak Djokovic has provided an update on the progress of his recovery from the injury that prematurely ended his 2025 Australian Open campaign. The Serbian legend has confirmed he will stick to his original schedule and is planning to return to competitive action at the Qatar Open in Doha.
The Serbian tennis star suffered a torn hamstring in his left leg during the first set of his Australian Open quarter-final victory against Carlos Alcaraz. Despite playing through the injury to defeat the Spaniard, the strain worsened, forcing him to retire after dropping the opening set of his semifinal against Alexander Zverev.
Now, the 24-time Grand Slam champion has reassured his fans that his recovery is nearly complete. “The injury has almost fully healed, and I have been given the green light by my medical team to compete again,” Djokovic told Serbian newspaper Vijesti, as reported by Reuters. “I am looking forward to returning to Doha, a tournament where I have great memories.”
Novak Djokovic’s Return to Doha
The Qatar Open, which will be held from February 17 to 22, has been upgraded from an ATP 250 to an ATP 500 event this year. The tournament boasts a star-studded lineup featuring world No. 1 Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz, Daniil Medvedev, Alex de Minaur, Andrey Rublev, Stefanos Tsitsipas, and Grigor Dimitrov.
Djokovic last competed in the Qatar Open in 2019 but previously claimed the title in 2016 and 2017. The 37-year-old will be aiming for a strong comeback as he continues his pursuit of a historic 100th ATP title, joining the elite company of Jimmy Connors and Roger Federer.
Recovery And Future Aspirations
Djokovic’s withdrawal from the Australian Open was a significant setback in his quest for a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title. The injury added to a growing list of physical struggles, including his withdrawal from the 2024 French Open quarter-finals due to a knee injury that required meniscus surgery. However, the Serbian star demonstrated his resilience by returning in time for Wimbledon, where he reached the final before falling to Alcaraz. He then captured his first Olympic gold medal in Paris, defeating the Spaniard at Roland Garros.
