Dubai has cemented itself as the go-to pre-season base for tennis’s elite. Weeks after Jannik Sinner trained there, Novak Djokovic has now arrived to begin his own prep. The 24-time Grand Slam champion was spotted at Atlantis The Royal yesterday, kicking off his 2026 build-up. With the Australian swing nearing, Djokovic is wasting no time getting match-ready.
Novak Djokovic Returns to Court After Capturing 101st ATP Title
Djokovic’s appearance in the UAE comes after a period of necessary rest following a landmark achievement late in the 2025 season.
The 38-year-old last competed in Greece, where he captured the 101st title at the Hellenic Championship in Athens, defeating Lorenzo Musetti.
However, that victory came at a physical cost. Djokovic subsequently withdrew from the ATP Finals in Turin due to a nagging shoulder injury, choosing to prioritize recovery over the season-ending championships.
After a brief rehabilitation period where he was seen testing his arm in Athens, Djokovic has shifted gears to full intensity in Dubai. His arrival follows a busy period for tennis in the city, which recently hosted the Italian Open, where Sinner was a participant.
The Italian star was seen training with former World No. 1 Simona Halep under the watchful eye of coach Darren Cahill, utilizing the warm climate to prepare for his Australian Open title defense.
MORE: Simona Halep Spotted With Jannik Sinner on Court in Dubai
Now, it is Djokovic commanding the courts at Atlantis The Royal. Observers noted the Serbian hitting clean, powerful backhands and forehands during his first session, showing no lingering signs of the shoulder issue as he eyes a record-extending 11th crown in Melbourne.
Djokovic Confirms Adelaide Appearance Heading Into 2026
With his physical condition apparently back to 100%, Djokovic has locked in his schedule for the start of the new year. He has been officially confirmed to compete at the Adelaide International, starting January 12 next year.
This ATP 250 tournament will serve as his primary warm-up event before heading to Melbourne Park. Despite being in the twilight of his career, Djokovic’s commitment to competing at the highest level remains unshaken as he looks to reassert his dominance against a younger generation of rivals.
MORE: Novak Djokovic’s 2026 Season Debut Confirmed As Serb Set To Compete Before Chasing Historic 11th Australian Open Crown
The primary target for 2026 is clear: breaking the “Sin-caraz” dominance to secure a historic 25th Grand Slam singles title. The previous season proved frustratingly close for the legend, who reached the deep stages of majors only to be thwarted by the tour’s new ‘Big Three’.
He was forced to retire against Alexander Zverev and suffered semifinal heartbreaks against both Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz at the other Slams. By starting his campaign early in Dubai, Djokovic is sending a strong signal that he intends to challenge the youth and reclaim his throne at the top of the sport.