Novak Djokovic is widely celebrated as one of the greatest singles players in tennis history, with an unmatched haul of 24 Grand Slam titles. Yet, hidden within his illustrious career is a lesser-known tale of success: his venture into doubles. While doubles has never been Djokovic’s primary focus, his rare triumphs in this format provide fascinating insights into his adaptability, camaraderie, and determination to excel on every front.
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As Djokovic prepares to team up with Nick Kyrgios at the Brisbane International, let’s revisit his journey in doubles, from his sole doubles title to his partnerships with tennis legends.
A Rare Triumph: The Queen’s Club Title with Jonathan Erlich
The year was 2010, and Djokovic, then 23 years old, had already established himself as a dominant singles player. However, after a surprising early exit in the singles draw at the Queen’s Club Championships, Djokovic decided to turn his focus to doubles. Partnering with Israeli doubles specialist Jonathan Erlich, Djokovic embarked on an unexpected journey to the doubles title.
Erlich, a seasoned doubles player with a Grand Slam title to his name, brought experience and strategic expertise to the partnership. Their chemistry was evident from the start as they overcame Jonathan Marray and Jamie Delgado in straight sets during the first round. Yet, the path to victory was anything but smooth. In the subsequent rounds, Djokovic and Erlich faced four consecutive matches decided by tie-breaks, demonstrating their resilience under pressure.
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The final was a tense affair against Karol Beck and David Skoch, but Djokovic and Erlich emerged victorious, securing Djokovic’s first and only doubles title. Reflecting on the triumph, Djokovic later described it as one of the most enjoyable weeks of his career. “Jonathan brought a lot of energy and positivity. It was a unique experience that I’ll always cherish,” he said.
The Djokovic-Erlich Connection
Jonathan Erlich was no stranger to success. Alongside his compatriot Andy Ram, Erlich had captured 16 doubles titles, including a Grand Slam victory at the 2008 Australian Open. His partnership with Djokovic was brief but impactful, showcasing the power of teamwork and adaptability. Erlich’s mentorship played a crucial role in helping Djokovic navigate the nuances of doubles strategy, from positioning to communication.
Their collaboration highlighted Djokovic’s ability to adapt his skill set for doubles play, a format that requires quick reflexes, precise net play, and seamless coordination with a partner. For Djokovic, the Queen’s Club victory was a testament to his versatility and willingness to embrace new challenges.
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Partnerships with Legends
While Djokovic’s doubles career has been sporadic, he has shared the court with some of the biggest names in tennis. In 2010, Djokovic partnered with Rafael Nadal at the Montreal Masters, forming a dream team of the world’s top two players. Although they lost in the first round to Canadian duo Milos Raonic and Vasek Pospisil, their collaboration drew immense attention, underscoring the allure of doubles as a platform for rare partnerships.
Djokovic’s doubles resume also includes appearances with players like Radek Stepanek, Feliciano Lopez, and Viktor Troicki. These partnerships often served as strategic preparations for major tournaments, allowing Djokovic to sharpen his skills and build rapport with teammates. Despite his limited doubles outings, Djokovic’s ability to hold his own alongside doubles specialists speaks volumes about his all-around talent.
A New Chapter with Nick Kyrgios
As Djokovic gears up for the 2025 season, his decision to partner with Nick Kyrgios at the Brisbane International has generated significant buzz. The pairing brings together two of the sport’s most polarizing and talented figures, each known for their fiery competitiveness and flair.
Kyrgios, who last played a competitive match in June 2023, will be making his return to the tour alongside Djokovic. Their partnership is particularly intriguing given their history as rivals. The two faced off in the 2022 Wimbledon final, where Djokovic emerged victorious in four sets. Despite their on-court battles, they share a mutual respect and have developed a camaraderie that promises to make their doubles pairing a spectacle.
For Djokovic, the Brisbane International represents an opportunity to rediscover the joys of doubles and refine his game ahead of the Australian Open. For Kyrgios, it’s a chance to reignite his career and test his skills against top competition. Together, they aim to capture the doubles title and make a strong statement heading into the new season.
Djokovic’s Legacy in Doubles
Though singles has always been Djokovic’s domain, his forays into doubles reveal another dimension of his greatness. His willingness to step out of his comfort zone and embrace the collaborative nature of doubles underscores his love for the sport and his relentless pursuit of excellence.
Looking back at his career, Djokovic’s doubles achievements may seem modest compared to his singles accolades. However, they highlight his versatility and the depth of his skill set. Whether playing alongside a veteran like Erlich or teaming up with a rival-turned-partner like Kyrgios, Djokovic has consistently demonstrated his ability to adapt and excel.
Looking Ahead
As Djokovic and Kyrgios prepare to take the court in Brisbane, the tennis world eagerly awaits their performance. Their partnership symbolizes the unpredictable and dynamic nature of doubles, a format that continues to captivate fans with its blend of strategy and excitement.
For Djokovic, the Brisbane International is more than just a warm-up event. It’s an opportunity to revisit the joys of doubles, strengthen his game, and inspire fans with his enduring passion for tennis. As the 2025 season unfolds, Djokovic’s journey in doubles serves as a reminder that even the greatest players continue to seek new challenges and push the boundaries of their potential.
Conclusion
Novak Djokovic’s doubles story may be a lesser-known chapter in his illustrious career, but it’s one that underscores his versatility and determination. From his Queen’s Club triumph with Jonathan Erlich to his upcoming partnership with Nick Kyrgios, Djokovic’s doubles ventures reflect his enduring love for the game and his ability to adapt to new challenges. As he steps onto the doubles court once again, Djokovic’s journey serves as an inspiration to fans and players alike, proving that greatness knows no bounds.
