Djokovic Announces Return to Tennis After Three-Month Hiatus

Novak Djokovic announced his return to competitive tennis today, confirming he will participate in the Dubai Tennis Championships starting February 24th. The 24-time Grand Slam champion has been absent from the tour for three months following his record-breaking 11th Australian Open title in January, citing the need for physical and mental recovery.

The Serbian superstar, now 39, shocked the tennis world by taking an extended break immediately after his Melbourne triumph, where he defeated Carlos Alcaraz in a five-set final that many consider one of the greatest matches ever played. "I needed this time to recharge and prepare for what I hope will be another successful season," Djokovic said in a statement released through his management team.

During his hiatus, Djokovic has been working with his longtime coach Goran Ivanišević at his training facility in Montenegro. The former world No. 1 has also been involved in various philanthropic activities through his foundation, including opening two new tennis academies in Eastern Europe. Despite his absence, he has maintained his ranking at No. 3 in the world due to the points earned from his Australian Open victory.

"Novak looks refreshed and motivated," said Ivanišević in an interview with Tennis Magazine. "The break was exactly what he needed. He's been working on specific aspects of his game and is excited to compete again." The coach revealed that Djokovic has been focusing particularly on his serve and net play, areas he believes can still be improved even at this stage of his career.

The Dubai Championships will mark Djokovic's first competitive matches since Melbourne, and tournament director Salah Tahlak expressed his excitement about having the former world No. 1 in the draw. "Novak's presence elevates our tournament to another level. The fans here in Dubai have been asking about him since the Australian Open, and we're thrilled he chose our event for his return."

Looking ahead to the rest of the season, Djokovic's schedule remains uncertain beyond Dubai. However, he is expected to play a full clay court season leading up to the French Open, where he will attempt to win his fourth Roland Garros title and extend his Grand Slam record to 25 titles.