Novak Djokovic returns from injury with 48-minute doubles win alongside retiring ATP star
Novak Djokovic dropped just two games and needed only 48 minutes as he made his return to action with a dominant doubles victory at the Qatar Open.
The 37-year-old Serbian legend is partnering Fernando Verdasco in Doha at what is the 41-year-old Spanish veteran’s final tournament before his retirement.
Djokovic and Verdasco, who are competing as a wildcard pairing, demolished Karen Khachanov and Alexander Bublik 6-1, 6-1 in their opening round match at the ATP 500 event.
The duo broke five times and did not drop serve as they won 51 of the 81 points played in a one-sided contest.
In an on-court interview, Verdasco joked: “I have to say, maybe after this match I shouldn’t play the second round. I should just go and retire by winning 6-1, 6-1.
“It’s the best feeling ever, thank you so much for coming today, and see you on Wednesday.”
Verdasco, who reached a career-high ranking of world No 7 in 2009, has won seven ATP singles titles and eight doubles titles in a distinguished career.
The Spaniard will, perhaps, be remembered most for his inspired performance in the epic five-set semi-final he lost to Rafael Nadal at the 2009 Australian Open.
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Ahead of his farewell in Doha, where he lives, Verdasco expressed his gratitude to Djokovic for accepting his doubles offer.
“After so many incredible years on the ATP Tour, the time has come for my final tournament at the Qatar ExxonMobil Open 2025,” Verdasco wrote on Instagram.
“And what better way to finish than playing doubles with my friend Novak Djokovic, a true legend of our sport and one of the best athletes of all time
“@djokernole, thank you so much for saying yes since the first moment I told you.
“I’m going to enjoy every moment and give it my all one last time. Thank you everyone that has been there for me during all my career in the good and in the bad times.
“Let’s make this week unforgettable. THANK YOU.”
Verdasco and Djokovic will face Harri Heliovaara and Henry Patten, the second seeds and reigning Wimbledon and Australian Open doubles champions, in the quarter-finals.
Djokovic is playing for the first time since a hamstring tear forced him to retire from his Australian Open semi-final against Alexander Zverev last month.
