Preparations for the 2025 Australian Open are in full swing as defending champion Jannik Sinner, 10-time winner Novak Djokovic, and world No. 3 Carlos Alcaraz began their training sessions at the iconic Rod Laver Arena. The tournament’s main draw kicks off on January 12, with the much-anticipated draw announcement scheduled for Thursday.
Djokovic and Murray Join Forces
Novak Djokovic trained under the guidance of his new coach, Andy Murray, at the Rod Laver Arena. This marks Murray’s first coaching role since retiring in 2024 following the Paris Olympics. With three Grand Slam titles and two Olympic singles gold medals to his name, Murray’s expertise adds a new dimension to Djokovic’s pursuit of a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title.
Djokovic enters the tournament after a surprising quarterfinal loss to Reilly Opelka at the Brisbane International. The Serb is determined to bounce back after failing to secure major titles in 2023, winning only a historic Olympic gold.
Alcaraz Looks to Break New Ground
Carlos Alcaraz, sporting a fresh look, arrived in Melbourne on Monday and began training with French player Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard. The Spaniard, ranked third in the world, aims to go beyond the quarterfinals — his best Australian Open performance to date — and add the elusive title to his Grand Slam collection.
Sinner Starts Strong
Jannik Sinner made a triumphant return to the Rod Laver Arena, securing a straight-sets victory over Australia’s Alexei Popyrin in a charity match. The Italian showcased his dominance, creating nine break points to one and winning 6-4, 7-6. Sinner, who defeated Djokovic in the 2024 semifinals en route to his maiden Grand Slam title, looks poised for another strong run.
With the Australian Open just days away, all eyes are on Melbourne as tennis greats gear up for the year’s first Grand Slam.