Novak Djokovic relishing leading Serbia at United Cup ahead of Australian Open – ‘Always the greatest honour’

Novak Djokovic is relishing the prospect of representing Serbia at the United Cup, which begins on Friday.

The men’s world No. 1 is part of a Serbian team that will face the Czech Republic and China in Perth, and Djokovic was pleased to return Down Under earlier than usual.

“It’s been a while since I was here last time so it’s great. I’m happy when I return to Australia, where I had probably the biggest Grand Slam success in my career,” he told reporters upon landing.

“I’m excited to play; I came in earlier than I normally do due to the schedule because the United Cup starts before the New Year, but representing Serbia is always the greatest honour and pride.

“So, hopefully we can have a packed house with a lot of people coming to watch our matches.”

It has been Djokovic’s most successful Grand Slam, as he targets an 11th title after beating Stefanos Tsitsipas in the 2023 final.

This will be his United Cup debut ahead of their group opener against China on Sunday, and reassured fans that he hopes to return to Australia again in the seasons ahead.

He heads into the tournament after facing Carlos Alcaraz in an exhibition match in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as preparation for the warmer playing conditions.

“I haven’t been to this part [Perth] of Australia for seven, eight or nine years,” he explained.

“It’s going to be great; a hot Australian summer as always. We’ve been trying to prepare for that in the Middle East, so I’m going to take a couple of days of training and hopefully get at my desired level very soon.

“I hope it’s not my last [summer in Australia]. I always looked forward to coming back to Australia, where I felt like I’ve played my best tennis over the years.

“I have great support here and don’t really have a plan about what’s going to happen next year, and I’ll take it season by season.”