John Isner claims Novak Djokovic is ‘motivated’ to win Grand Slam titles again in 2025

Novak Djokovic will return to the Australian this month as the seventh seed, losing in the semifinals last year.

John Isner claims Novak Djokovic is ‘motivated’ to win Grand Slam titles again in 2025

John Isner and Novak Djokovic (via X)

Former American tennis player John Isner shares his well-wishes for Novak Djokovic in the 2025 season. The big-serving American believes the Serb has what it takes to win big titles again this year.

Djokovic went through the entire 2024 season without a Grand Slam title. This was only the second time since 2011 that he failed to win one. However, Isner is confident that Djokovic has the motivation to reclaim Grand Slam glory.

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For me, in particular, I really want to see if Novak Djokovic can win another Grand Slam. If he has another trick up his sleeve, we’ll see if he can do it. He’s obviously motivated. I’d also like to see if an American can win a Grand Slam, whether it’s men’s or women’s.

John Isner said on Nothing Major Podcast

The only highlight of Djokovic’s 2024 season was his Olympic Singles Gold medal in Paris. He defeated Carlos Alcaraz in the final to secure the only major title missing from his career achievements. Despite this, Djokovic reached just one Grand Slam final in 2024, losing to Alcaraz at Wimbledon.

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As the defending champion at three Grand Slam events, Djokovic watched those titles go to either Alcaraz or World No.1 Jannik Sinner. This dip in form saw Djokovic drop to No.7 in the world rankings.

Novak Djokovic reacts to defeat in Brisbane International

Novak Djokovic shared a brief message after a surprising loss at the 2025 Brisbane International. The Serbian star lost to Reilly Opelka in the quarter-finals on January 3, just days before the Australian Open.

Novak Djokovic
Novak Djokovic (via X)

Amazing tennis, Reilly. Absolutely deserved. Good luck.

Novak Djokovic on Instagram story

Djokovic, a 24-time Grand Slam champion, was defeated by Opelka, ranked 293rd in the world. This marks an unexpected setback for the 37-year-old, who is set to team up with former British No.1 Andy Murray as his new coach later this month.

After the match, Djokovic posted on Instagram to congratulate Opelka and wish him luck. He shared a photo of the two shaking hands after their match.

Opelka also beat Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard in the semi-finals on January 4. Meanwhile, Djokovic will turn his focus to the Australian Open, which begins on January 12, 2025.