Novak Djokovic thwarts Gael Monfils to reach Brisbane International quarters

Tennis star Novak Djokovic has made it to the quarterfinals of the Brisbane International 2025 after thwarting Gael Monfils by 6-3, 6-3 at the Queensland Tennis Centre on January 2 in round number 16. This victory marked the Serbian legend's 20th career win over Monfils in as many matches, extending the record for the most one-sided rivalry in ATP history.

Meanwhile, the Serbian legend is set to face Reilly Opelka in round number eight and aims to place in the semifinal thriller to boost the preparation for the 2025 Australian Open, where he will be aiming to win his record-breaking 11th Melbourne title and 25th Grand Slam of his historic career. The world number seven is now through his 217th ATP tour of his illustrious career, which marks the joint fourth highest on the men's tour.

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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

Novak Djokovic thwarts Monfils for 20th time in a row

The 37-year-old tennis legend won against Australian wildcard Rinky Hijikata by 6-3 earlier this week. In the previous round of the marquee event, Monfils toppled Nishesh Basavareddy.

On the flip side, Novak Djokovic has recently announced his plans to rejig his schedule as he bids to do whatever it takes to beat some of his young rivals on the tennis court.

Makes it 20-0 🙌@DjokerNole defeats Monfils, continuing his perfect record against the Frenchman!#BrisbaneTennispic.twitter.com/9h3mkC3Yml

— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) January 2, 2025

“We'll see. It's just the beginning of the season. I mean, I have the next kind of five or six months' calendar in my head, you know, a possible scenario. But, you know, you still have to review post-Australia. I'm actually committed to playing Doha, and then I have to see, you know, Indian Wells and 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 at," Novak Djokovic said.

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