Athens Open 2025: A New Chapter
The inaugural edition of the Athens Open is set to take place from November 2 to November 8, 2025. This marks a significant moment as the event transitions from Belgrade, where it was held last year at the Novak Tennis Center under the management of tennis great Novak Djokovic‘s family. Reports suggest that tensions between Djokovic and the Serbian government may have influenced this relocation, although no official reason has been confirmed.
Djokovic’s Participation and Local Impact
Djokovic’s decision to move to Athens with his family has led many to speculate about the factors behind this shift, which is bittersweet for Serbian fans who regard him as a national hero.
His participation in the ATP 250 tournament in Athens adds considerable intrigue, as there had been some doubt about whether the seasoned player would commit to such a level of competition at his age. However, his residence in Athens and the event’s new setup appear to have encouraged him to enter, positively impacting ticket sales and local enthusiasm.
Looking Ahead: ATP Finals and Local Stars
As the tournament occurs just before the ATP Finals, questions remain regarding Djokovic’s intentions for that prestigious event should he qualify. Currently ranked third in the race for a place in Turin, Djokovic’s recent performances, particularly his reaction to rivals like Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, suggest he might reconsider playing back-to-back tournaments.
On the other hand, Greek tennis fans will be eager to see the country’s own Stefanos Tsitsipas in action. Following a difficult season and a recent leg injury that caused him to withdraw from the Shanghai Masters, Tsitsipas aims to regain his form on home soil. His ability to compete will be pivotal for local support as fans rally behind him in Athens.
Exciting Lineup of Competitors
The excitement doesn’t end there, as the entry list boasts other notable names including Brazilian talent Joao Fonseca, who is focusing on his preparation for the indoor hard court season, Czech player Jakub Mensik, who recently triumphed at the Miami Open against Djokovic, and several other competitive players like Karen Khachanov and Roberto Bautista Agut. Overall, the Athens Open promises to be a thrilling week of tennis, showcasing a diverse array of talent.
