Novak Djokovic Stands Alone As Tennis Golden Era Ends

Serbia's Novak Djokovic walks with his coach Andy Murray, left, during a practice session ahead of the Australian Open tennis championship in Melbourne, Australia, Saturday, Jan. 11, 2025. (AP Photo/N

MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — Novak Djokovic now stands as the sole remaining member of the iconic Big Three in men's tennis, following the retirements of Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer. The Australian Open, the first Grand Slam tournament of 2025, commenced on Sunday (Saturday night EST) and marks the first major championship since Nadal, 38, played his final match at the Davis Cup in November. Federer bid farewell to the sport in 2021, officially announcing his retirement in 2022.

For many players like Francisco Cerúndolo, a top 20-ranked player from Argentina, witnessing the end of this tennis era is bittersweet. Having grown up watching these legends dominate the sport, transitioning to competing against them has been a remarkable journey.

Djokovic, a 24-time Grand Slam champion, has claimed 10 of his titles at Melbourne Park since his Grand Slam debut in 2005. His quest for an 11th Australian Open title and 25th Grand Slam trophy began against 19-year-old Nishesh Basavareddy, who recently turned professional after leaving Stanford University.

2025 Australian Open marks the first major without Nadal and Federer.

Djokovic remains the sole Big Three member after Nadal and Federer retire.

Francisco Cerúndolo reflects on transitioning from watching to competing against legends.

Djokovic, a 24-time Grand Slam champion, starts his quest for an 11th Australian Open title.

Andy Murray coaches Djokovic for the event, aiming to support his pursuit of history.

Young players like Nishesh Basavareddy idolize Djokovic as they face him on court.

Djokovic's enduring fitness and competitive spirit make him a formidable force.

Fans and experts speculate on Djokovic's future and potential in the sport.

Notable changes for Djokovic include being coached by his former on-court rival, Andy Murray, for this event. Murray, a retired player with three major titles and two Olympic singles gold medals, aims to support Djokovic in his pursuit of tennis history.

Accompanied by his wife and children, Djokovic faces a new generation of players like Basavareddy, who grew up idolizing the Serbian star. While some players looked up to Federer or Nadal, Djokovic's influence on the younger generation remains significant.

Despite a challenging 2024 season marred by a knee injury, Djokovic clinched an Olympic singles gold medal, completing his illustrious collection of accolades. As Djokovic prepares for the Australian Open, fans and experts alike speculate on his future in the sport and his potential to continue winning at the highest level.

Former players like Wesley Koolhof acknowledge Djokovic's enduring fitness and competitive spirit, emphasizing his status as a formidable force in men's tennis. Current players such as Alexander Zverev and Carlos Alcaraz recognize Djokovic's prowess on the court, highlighting his continued relevance and threat to opponents.

As Djokovic embarks on another Grand Slam campaign, the tennis world eagerly anticipates his performance and the legacy he continues to build in the sport.