Novak Djokovic has been announced as a new Qatar Airways Global Ambassador and Wellness Advisor – a move that could suggest a key event in the Serbian’s 2025 schedule.
It was announced on Thursday that the 24-time Grand Slam champion and former world No 1 was teaming up with the famed airline.
The partnership was announced at the Altitude Wellness Centre at Al Maha Qatar Airways Crew Accommodation Building in Doha, with the Serbian present.
In a statement, Djokovic said: “It is my great pleasure and honour to partner with Qatar Airways, a company I admire for many years not just for its impeccable service to its customers and employees, but also because it recognises the importance of wellbeing and longevity which is a passion of mine.
“I believe that together we will be able to add more value and quality to the award-winning experience for the customers worldwide.
“As I continue to travel the world as a professional athlete, with my family and for business, I am grateful to have Qatar Airways as my partner.”
As part of his role with Qatar Airways, Djokovic will work to promote the Qatar Open, the ATP 500 event that has been held in Doha since 1993.
The event has become one of the most prestigious on tour and Djokovic has twice triumphed at the tournament, beating Rafael Nadal in the 2016 final and Andy Murray in the 2017 final.
The Serbian also played in 2015, losing to Ivo Karlovic in the last eight, and in 2019, when he was beaten in the last four by Roberto Bautista Agut.
Next year’s event in Doha will take place from February 17-23, and Thursday’s announcement suggests that Djokovic could well play.
The Serbian played a limited schedule in 2024, appearing at just 10 tournaments – with just one below Masters 1000 level – alongside representing his country in the United Cup and Davis Cup.
He will likely continue to limit his schedule in 2025 as he looks to prioritise Grand Slams tournaments and try to win a historic 25th major.
Should Djokovic not play, it is possible that he could attend the event in an ambassadorial role.
Djokovic’s plan for the season is not yet official but it looks likely he will not play a warm-up event ahead of the Australian Open, which starts January 12.
The Serbian will be looking for a record-extending 11th men’s singles title in Melbourne.