WATCH: “I’ve never…,” Novak Djokovic’s answer to what keeps him ‘motivated’ after reaching quarterfinals draws laughter in Brisbane
Novak Djokovic reached the quarterfinals at the Brisbane International after beating Gael Monfils in straight sets.

Novak Djokovic never won Brisbane International (Images via X)
Novak Djokovic beat Gael Monfils for the 20th time on the trot on Thursday (January 2) at the Brisbane International. With a 6-3, 6-3 win, the 1st seed has secured a place in the quarterfinals where he’s set to lock horns with Reilly Opelka.
Djokovic is at the twilight of his career but he is still motivated to win tournaments. Asked after the match what always keeps him ‘motivated’, Djokovic’s answer drew laughter from the crowd inside the Pat Rafter Arena.
I’ve never won the Brisbane International (smiling). It’s true. Hopefully, this is the year. That’s why I’m here, I’ve played here a couple of times, I think I played a tournament a long time ago, back in 2009, and I played with the Serbian team in the ATP Cup four or five years ago.
Novak Djokovic said in his post-match interview
Watch the video here:
Novak Djokovic when asked what keeps him motivated to still keep playing: “I never won Brisbane.” ??pic.twitter.com/P35OUQoEk8
— Danny ? (@DjokovicFan_) January 2, 2025
Djokovic is certainly enjoying his time in Brisbane as he’s also spending time off the court with his family, who is Down Under for the first time. Following his win over Monfils, Djokovic also brought out his violin celebration. But along with it, he incorporated saxophone too in his celebrations as he had to fulfill daughter Tara and son Stefan‘s wishes.
Novak Djokovic says he wants to play more than he did last year
Novak Djokovic‘s priorities last year were Grand Slam events and the Paris Olympics which is why he skipped several tournaments, including the ATP Masters 1000 events. Djokovic once again stated that he would focus on managing his schedule in 2025 as well but has planned to play more than he did last year.

I’m actually committed to play Doha, and then I have to see, you know, Indian Wells, Miami, and I wish to play both, but we have to see how I feel and talk with the team. And just manage the schedule right, because I want to peak at the biggest tournaments. Slams, obviously, but also Masters events, the Masters events that I’d like to play my best tennis.
Novak Djokovic said at the press conference
The 24-time Grand Slam champion also said he would do everything it takes to challenge the youngsters against whom he succumbed to defeat last year in Majors. After Brisbane, Djokovic will be chasing the historic 25th Grand Slam title at the Australian Open where in 2024 he lost to eventual winner Jannik Sinner in the semifinals.
Gouri Das
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