Novak Djokovic, one of the greatest tennis players of all time, has revealed that his leg injury, which prematurely ended his 2025 Australian Open hopes, is now “almost 100 percent healed.” The Serbian star announced in an exclusive interview with the Montenegrin newspaper Vijesti on Monday, offering a glimpse of optimism and determination as he looks ahead to his next challenge at the ATP tournament in Doha, scheduled to take place later this month.
Djokovic’s path to reclaiming his place at the top of men’s tennis was temporarily derailed by a leg injury during his Australian Open semi-final against Germany’s Alexander Zverev. After suffering a muscle tear, Djokovic was forced to retire mid-match, abruptly ending his bid for a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title. It was a heartbreaking moment for a player whose career has been defined by resilience and an unyielding commitment to success on the world’s biggest stages. However, Djokovic’s recovery appears to be progressing rapidly, and he has expressed confidence in his ability to return to form and challenge for more titles in 2025.
The Road to Recovery: Djokovic’s Positive Outlook
In his interview, Djokovic provided an update on his injury recovery, detailing how far he has come since the setback at Melbourne Park. “There’s no longer any muscle tear,” he explained, adding that he has received the go-ahead from his medical team to resume training and prepare for his next tournament. This news comes as a relief to tennis fans around the world, who were left wondering whether Djokovic’s injury would be more serious than initially feared.
“I am very happy to report that the injury is almost 100 per cent healed,” Djokovic said with a smile. “I have been following the prescribed recovery plan, and I feel great. My medical team is satisfied with the progress, and I am now cleared to resume full training and preparation for the upcoming tournaments.”
The 37-year-old tennis icon has been focusing on rebuilding his strength and agility, which were hampered by the injury in January. A leg injury can be a significant setback for a player who relies so heavily on movement and flexibility. Djokovic acknowledged that the recovery process had been challenging but expressed gratitude for the support of his team and family, who kept him motivated and focused on his ultimate goal: returning to the ATP Tour in full force.
Despite the injury’s toll, Djokovic’s mindset remains as sharp as ever. He is determined to make up for lost time and aim for his 100th ATP title at the Qatar Open in Doha, which will take place from February 18 to February 24. The tournament, which has historically attracted some of the biggest names in men’s tennis, will mark a fresh start for Djokovic after a turbulent start to the year. His goal is clear: he wants to make a statement, reminding the tennis world that he is still a force to be reckoned with.
Looking Ahead: The Goal for 100 ATP Titles
With 22 Grand Slam singles titles to his name and a record-breaking career, Djokovic’s pursuit of his 100th ATP title is one of the most exciting storylines of the 2025 season. Having already surpassed the milestones of his legendary rivals Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, Djokovic is now focused on further cementing his legacy as one of the sport’s all-time greats.
The Qatar Open, which Djokovic has won three times in his career (2016, 2017, 2020), is an ideal platform for the Serbian to begin his charge toward this remarkable achievement. With his leg injury nearly healed, Djokovic is excited to get back on the court in Doha and prove that he can still compete at the highest level, despite the obstacles that have come his way.
“My focus is on getting back to my best level,” Djokovic emphasized. “The journey to 100 titles is an exciting challenge for me. I’ve had an incredible career so far, and while the leg injury was a setback, I do not doubt that I am ready for the next chapter.”
Djokovic’s pursuit of his 100th title will be closely watched, further fueling the debate over his place in tennis history. The Serbian is currently tied with Federer and Nadal for Grand Slam singles titles, but his longevity and consistency on the ATP Tour make his career truly unique. While Federer has retired and Nadal’s future is uncertain due to injury concerns, Djokovic continues to defy age and expectations, making him the favorite for many upcoming events.
For now, Djokovic remains focused on the present. Although the injury setback at the Australian Open may have been difficult to overcome, the world No. 1 has repeatedly shown that he possesses an unwavering mental fortitude that sets him apart from his peers.
The Australian Open Fallout: A Heartbreaking End to Djokovic’s Melbourne Dream
The 2025 Australian Open was shaping up to be a career-defining tournament for Djokovic, who had arrived in Melbourne with hopes of making history. The 37-year-old had already enjoyed an incredible run in recent years, winning multiple Grand Slam titles, including his 10th Australian Open crown earlier in 2024.
However, Djokovic’s dream of adding another Australian Open trophy to his collection was abruptly ended in the semi-finals by Zverev, when he was forced to retire after dropping the first set. The injury occurred during a high-stakes, back-and-forth battle against the German, and Djokovic’s decision to retire was made after it became clear that he was no longer able to play at his best.
After the match, Djokovic was visibly disappointed but took time to thank his fans for their unwavering support. “It’s hard to express the frustration that comes with something like this,” he admitted. “But I know I have to stay positive, take it one step at a time, and trust the process. I’m grateful for the love I’ve received from my supporters, and I’m looking forward to coming back stronger.”
The Australian Open loss was undoubtedly a tough moment for Djokovic, who had been chasing his 25th Grand Slam title, which would have been a monumental milestone in his career. But the setback has not broken his resolve. Instead, it has fueled his desire to make a triumphant return to the ATP Tour and continue chasing records and titles.
Djokovic’s Legacy: More Than Just Titles
As Djokovic prepares for his next tournament in Doha, it’s clear that his legacy is about more than just titles. While his quest for a 100th ATP title is an exciting chapter in his career, his influence on the game and the way he has redefined athletic excellence are also critical components of his story.
At 37, Djokovic is still playing at a remarkably high level, defying the typical trajectory of tennis careers. His ability to maintain his fitness, motivation, and mental strength in the face of constant challenges is a testament to his discipline and love for the game.
“I know how much work and dedication it takes to stay at the top,” Djokovic said. “It’s not just about winning titles; it’s about enjoying the journey, the process of improving, and pushing the boundaries of what is possible.”
As he continues to aim for his 100th ATP title, the tennis world eagerly awaits Djokovic’s return to the court in Doha. If history has taught us anything, it’s that when Novak Djokovic sets his sights on a goal, he has an uncanny ability to make it happen. Whether or not he claims his 100th title in Doha remains to be seen, but one thing is for sure: Djokovic’s journey is far from over, and his story continues to inspire fans and athletes alike.
Conclusion: The Resilience of a Champion
Novak Djokovic’s ability to bounce back from injury and remain focused on his goals is a testament to the heart of a true champion. As he recovers from his leg injury and prepares to return to action in Doha, fans worldwide are excited to see what the next chapter holds for this tennis legend holds.
His quest for a 100th ATP title is not just about reaching a numerical milestone—it’s about continuing to challenge himself, push the limits of his body, and add to an already legendary career. As Djokovic himself put it, “I’m ready to go for more victories,” and if his history is anything to go by, fans can expect to see plenty more triumphs from the Serbian star in the years to come.