Novak Djokovic’s 2025 looks too much like last season so far. The former world No.1 reached the semifinals at the Australian Open by defeating Carlos Alcaraz in the quarterfinals, but then faced the same difficulties as in the last year and a half.

The 24-time Grand Slam champion is unable to play his best tennis with the necessary regularity, has too many ups and downs and struggles to find the necessary motivation in second-rate tournaments. His premature eliminations in Brisbane, Doha and especially at the Indian Wells Masters 1000 worried his fans and opened up further speculation about the future of the Serbian legend.

At almost 38 years old, it is not easy even for an icon like Djokovic to still compete at the highest level against players much younger and hungrier than him. After disappointing in California in the first Masters 1000 of the season, Nole decided to play the Miami Open for the first time in six years.

The legend from Belgrade – who has won six times in Florida during his career – had not participated in this tournament since 2019, when the first edition was held in the new venue (the Hard Rock Stadium).

Djokovic must react

Novak’s fans hope that he can win at least a few matches to regain some confidence ahead of the season on red clay.

Speaking on ‘Sport Klub’, top journalist Sasa Ozmo explained why Djokovic absolutely needs a prestigious result in Miami: “His first opponent in Florida could be Australian ace Rinky Hijikata, who he already defeated quite easily in Brisbane earlier this year. Whoever Novak’s opponent will be, I hope he approaches this match with maximum concentration.

He cannot afford another disappointing result, it would be his fourth defeat in a row and it would be a very hard blow.

Another defeat would affect his confidence and confidence for the rest of the season. I hope Nole prepares well and reaches at least the quarterfinals in Miami.”