When Novak Djokovic stepped onto Rod Laver Arena for his first Australian Open practice, the stands quickly filled with fans eager to see the 10-time AO champion at work. What they saw, however, wasn’t entirely reassuring. As the session went on, Djokovic showed visible signs of discomfort, prompting concern rather than confidence.

About an hour after his first session against world number 19 Jiri Lehecka (his fourth-round opponent from last year), Djokovic returned to the courts for more work. He stepped onto Court 10 around 5 p.m. for a second practice. 

This session quickly drew attention for the wrong reasons. It lasted just 12 minutes and raised concerns about his physical condition.

Much of that short time was spent with Djokovic receiving treatment. His trainer worked intensely on his neck. Knuckles and even a thumb were pressed in deeply. It looked uncomfortable and possibly painful, but Djokovic showed little visible reaction as the treatment continued.

After that, Djokovic moved to a resistance-band setup. The scene reminded many of the old Marion Bartoli days, with her father-coach Walter and his unusual training methods. Djokovic worked through the movements carefully. He also spoke at length with members of his team about several issues.

Only then did he begin hitting balls. He served a few times and was fed several “plus-ones.” The session ended shortly after it began. The brief workout left fans uneasy, especially given the expectations surrounding his Australian Open campaign.

There was some relief the following day. Djokovic showed up for a scheduled practice match against Daniil Medvedev on Wednesday. That alone eased many concerns. He played one set against the Russian and lost it 5-7. As it was only a practice match, the score carried little meaning.

Djokovic and Medvedev share history in Melbourne. They faced each other in the 2021 Australian Open final. On that occasion, Djokovic dominated and won in straight sets. Their latest hit-out was simply about rhythm, timing, and testing the body.

Questions about Djokovic’s fitness had already surfaced earlier. He withdrew from the Adelaide International, which fueled speculation. Still, during his Melbourne sessions, nothing appeared drastically wrong. 

Fitness remains a key concern heading into 2026. The quality of Djokovic’s tennis is not in doubt. He reached the semifinals of all four Grand Slams last year. Seeded fourth, he will hope for manageable early matches before potential clashes with Carlos Alcaraz or Jannik Sinner. 

And despite doubts, many still back him to chase an 11th Australian Open and a record 25th major title.

Chris Eubanks tips Novak Djokovic as the Australian Open “dark horse”

Novak Djokovic, now 38, has built his legacy in Melbourne. Ten of his 24 Grand Slam titles have come at the Australian Open. His most recent triumph there was in 2023. However, he has not lifted a major trophy since winning the 2023 US Open.

Since then, Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner have taken control. The two young stars have shared the last eight Grand Slam titles between them. Their rise has reshaped the men’s game and pushed Djokovic into a more unfamiliar position ahead of major tournaments.

At the Australian Open last year, Djokovic delivered a reminder of his pedigree. He defeated Alcaraz in the quarterfinals with a commanding performance. However, his run ended in the semifinals when he was forced to retire against Alexander Zverev due to a hamstring injury.

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Despite recent setbacks, Djokovic remains among the favorites. He is currently the third betting favorite in Melbourne. Only Sinner, the two-time defending champion, and world No. 1 Alcaraz sit ahead of him in the odds.

ESPN analyst and former player Chris Eubanks sees Djokovic differently. He believes the Serb is the tournament’s dark horse.

“I think my dark horse, if I had to call it that, would have to be Novak. I think his extended time off is going to hopefully allow his body to heal and be 100 percent healthy going into Australia,” Eubanks said Tuesday during a conference call with reporters.

He also recalled last year’s quarterfinal: “He beat Carlos in the quarters, and he straight-up beat him. I think Novak is a good enough ball striker.”

If Djokovic avoids Sinner or Alcaraz until late, his chances improve. Still, fitness remains the lingering question as he returns to Australian soil.