The 2025 Brisbane International might give fans their first look at Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray working together. Former World No. 1 Pat Rafter praised Djokovic’s decision not to prioritize money when planning his schedule. After parting ways with Goran Ivanisevic in March 2024, Djokovic spent most of the year without a permanent coach. He recently teamed up with Murray, who will guide him during the off-season and Australian events.

This is Murray’s first role as a coach since retiring from professional tennis at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Initially, many believed the partnership would debut at the Australian Open. However, Djokovic has adjusted his plans and will now play more tournaments in 2025, starting with the Brisbane International. Murray may have influenced this change.

The ATP 250 event will take place from December 30 to January 6. The competition will feature a strong lineup, including defending champion Grigor Dimitrov, Holger Rune, and Frances Tiafoe, all ranked inside the top 20. Djokovic’s presence adds even more excitement to the tournament.

Nick Kyrgios will also return to action at Brisbane. The 2018 champion is using his protected ranking of 21 to enter, marking his first competition since June 2023. Rising talents Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard and Jakub Mensik are also part of the field, promising an exciting start to the tennis season.

Novak Djokovic didn’t have to do it. He didn’t need to fly halfway across the world to play an exhibition match against Juan Martín del Potro. Del Potro hadn’t played any match since 2022 due to a chronic knee injury that forced him into retirement. But Djokovic, who has been friends with the Argentinian for years, wouldn’t have missed the chance to be part of Del Potro’s farewell event.

The exhibition, called The Last Challenge, was organized by Del Potro, who wanted to end his career on his own terms. He chose Djokovic as his opponent, and the Serbian gladly accepted. The match was less about competition and more about celebrating Del Potro’s career. Though Djokovic could have won, as he had in 16 of their 20 ATP matches, he let Del Potro take the victory in straight sets. It wasn’t about pride; it was about friendship.

The result wasn’t the most important part. The highlight came at the end of the match. On match point, Djokovic encouraged the crowd to cheer louder for Del Potro. Then, he served a soft ball that allowed Del Potro to hit a winning forehand. It was a moment of respect and celebration, not competition.

After the final point, both players hugged at the net, overcome with emotion. They cried together as Del Potro said goodbye to tennis on his own terms, surrounded by love and support. It wasn’t just a tennis moment—it was a human moment, showing the deep bond between two friends.