Novak Djokovic extended his remarkable head-to-head record against Gael Monfils at the 2025 Brisbane International, and fans noticed his celebration afterward.
Djokovic began last season at the United Cup but decided that playing in a more traditional tournament would be a better way to start the year than at the United Cup, a unique team event for ATP and WTA players.
However, a change to Djokovic's usual tournament schedule was playing in the doubles with Nick Kyrgios. They dramatically won their opening match before being eliminated in the next round despite holding an 8-6 lead in the deciding 10-point tiebreak.
Djokovic's decision to partner with Kyrgios received a mixed reception. Some loved watching two high-profile players compete together, while others felt the Serbian should not have done this because of the Australian's controversial status.
Kyrgios has repeatedly gone after Jannik Sinner since his doping case became public. Sinner tested positive for the banned substance clostebol at the Indian Wells Open, but that was not publicly revealed until August.
The Italian's case has been appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport and a ruling will be reached this year. Kyrgios has constantly talked about the case on social media, including implying Sinner took the substance deliberately despite the investigations into it confirming it was accidental.
Djokovic agreed with aspects of Kyrgios' criticisms about the case being kept private for several months but also stated he did not believe Sinner was the type of person who would deliberately take a prohibited substance.
Kyrgios and Djokovic's elimination from the doubles meant the 24-time Grand Slam champion could focus entirely on the singles. He wants to get as many matches as possible before the Australian Open later this month.
After beating Rinky Hijikata in the opening round, Djokovic overcame Gael Monfils for the 20th consecutive time. His 20-0 record against the Frenchman is the most dominant in ATP history.
Djokovic has celebrated victories by playing the violin, which he dedicates to his daughter, who is interested in the instrument. However, the former world No. 1 also incorporated the saxophone into his celebration after beating Monfils.
Djokovic explains his newest celebration
Speaking after the match, Djokovic explained that his son asked him to play the saxophone. The ten-time Australian Open champion's family were with him in Brisbane, making it easier for him to take such requests.
"My children told me to have two different kinds of celebrations. "My daughter told me to keep going with the violin if I win. My son told me to play the saxophone, so I try and incorporate both."
"It is the first time for me to have my family down under. It is a long trip but they have come to support me and we are spending a lot of quality time together off court. My heart is full and it allows me to play my best tennis."
Djokovic has mentioned several times how challenging it is for him to be away from his children when playing tournaments. It is terrific that the tennis legend feels at ease because of their presence in Australia.
