As the Australian Open begins on Sunday, the tennis world eagerly anticipates the exciting matchups and developments that will unfold on Melbourne’s hard courts. With the tournament culminating on January 25-26, here are five major storylines to watch for during this year’s event.
1. Can Jannik Sinner Maintain Focus Amidst Doping Controversy?
After an unforgettable 2024 season, Jannik Sinner returns to Melbourne Park, where he secured his maiden Grand Slam victory last year. The 23-year-old, now ranked world number one, heads into the 2025 Australian Open with impressive statistics: only six losses in 79 matches, including victories at the US Open, ATP Finals, and five additional titles.
However, Sinner’s Australian Open defense comes with added uncertainty. He was cleared of any wrongdoing following two failed doping tests in March 2024, but the World Anti-Doping Agency is challenging the verdict and seeking a potential one- to two-year ban. A hearing will take place at the Court of Arbitration for Sport on April 16-17.
2. Can Novak Djokovic Make More History?
At 37 years old, Novak Djokovic’s ability to surprise continues to captivate fans worldwide. The Serbian icon stunned the tennis world in November by announcing Andy Murray as his new coach for the 2025 season, an unexpected move that will undoubtedly add an intriguing dynamic to his title defense.
Anything less than an 11th Australian Open title would be disappointing for Djokovic, who has a chance to claim a record-extending 25th Grand Slam singles title. If successful, this victory would also mark his move ahead of Australia’s Margaret Court as the all-time leader in Grand Slam titles. Despite being seeded seventh, Djokovic’s resilience suggests he could still make history as the oldest-ever men’s Grand Slam champion.
3. Will 2025 Be Emma Raducanu’s Year to Kick On?
Emma Raducanu’s “fairytale” 2021 US Open victory seems distant as she faces growing challenges on the WTA Tour. The 22-year-old has struggled with injuries and inconsistent form, including pulling out of the season-opening Auckland event due to a back issue. She has yet to compete since November’s Billie Jean King Cup but has been training in Melbourne in preparation for the Australian Open.
Raducanu, whose career has faced scrutiny for her approach to coaching and sponsorship deals, now needs to step up her game. A strong performance in Melbourne could provide a solid foundation for the British star to reignite her career and prove that 2025 is her year to break through.
4. Can Aryna Sabalenka Complete a Historic Three-Peat?
Aryna Sabalenka enters the Australian Open with the chance to achieve something remarkable—becoming the first player since Martina Hingis (1997-99) to win three consecutive Australian Open women’s singles titles. The Belarusian has been a force on hard courts, securing back-to-back Australian Open titles and claiming the US Open in September. She ended 2024 as the world number one.
Sabalenka’s aggressive style and powerful game have made her a dominant force in Melbourne, where she has won 27 of her last 28 matches. With her title win in Brisbane earlier this year, she is well-prepared to continue her charge toward a historic three-peat.
5. How Will Nick Kyrgios Perform After Injury Layoff?
Nick Kyrgios, always a polarizing figure, makes his highly anticipated return to the Australian Open after a long injury hiatus. The 29-year-old, who has barely played in the past two years due to wrist and other injuries, made his comeback in Brisbane, playing doubles with Novak Djokovic before returning to singles action.
Though Kyrgios displayed flashes of brilliance against Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, he admitted that his wrist was still “throbbing,” leaving uncertainty about his ability to endure the physical demands of a five-set Grand Slam match. Despite concerns about his fitness, the Australian’s unpredictable and captivating style will keep the Melbourne crowd engaged, making him a must-watch during the tournament.
As the Australian Open unfolds, these key storylines promise to shape the course of the tournament and offer plenty of drama for tennis fans worldwide.
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