Djokovic Could Face Alcaraz, Sinner Again at Qatar Open

Djokovic Could Face Alcaraz, Sinner Again at Qatar Open

Novak Djokovic, former world No. 1, is set to make his return at the 2025 Qatar Open, an ATP 500 event taking place in mid-February. This tournament will feature some of the top-ranked players, including Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, whom Djokovic may face again.

Star-Studded Lineup at Qatar Open 2025

According to the official entry list, Sinner, Alcaraz, and Djokovic are the top three seeds. Other notable players joining the event include Alex de Minaur, Daniil Medvedev, Andrey Rublev, Stefanos Tsitsipas, and Grigor Dimitrov.

However, world No. 2 Alexander Zverev and world No. 5 Casper Ruud have opted to skip the tournament.

This year, the Qatar Open has been upgraded from an ATP 250 to an ATP 500 event, promising exciting matchups. Defending champion Karen Khachanov, currently ranked No. 20 in the world, won last year’s title in a field that lacked many top players—including Djokovic.

Djokovic’s Return After Injury

Djokovic has won the Qatar Open twice (2016, 2017) but has not competed in the event since 2018, choosing instead to play in Dubai Championship, another ATP 500 tournament in the Middle East held in February.

After withdrawing in the Australian Open semifinals due to injury, Djokovic has been undergoing physical therapy. According to Serbia’s Sportal, the 37-year-old is expected to resume training next week before flying to Doha midweek in preparation for the Qatar Open, which starts on February 17.

Accompanying Djokovic will be physiotherapist Claudio Cimalja, who is replacing Dr. Miljan Amanovic—who is reportedly set to support Djokovic only at Masters 1000 and Grand Slam events.

Will Djokovic and Andy Murray Continue Their Partnership?

One of the biggest questions for fans is whether Djokovic will continue working with Andy Murray at the Qatar Open.

After leaving Melbourne, Djokovic revealed that he would discuss his future with Murray. However, there has been no official confirmation on whether Murray will continue his coaching role, despite showing promising signs at the Australian Open.

Currently ranked No. 6 in the world, Djokovic has not won an ATP title since November 2023. His return at the Qatar Open will be a major focal point for tennis fans worldwide.