Key Storylines at the 2024 Australian Open
A preview of the key storylines to watch at the 2024 Australian Open
Djokovic's drive for 25 (and beyond)
Novak Djokovic will be seeking his 25th Grand Slam title at the 2024 Australian Open. He has publicly expressed his ambition to achieve the elusive 'Golden Slam' this year. Although Djokovic suffered a loss in the United Cup earlier this month, he is still considered the favorite to win the Australian Open. He will face tough competition from players like Carlos Alcaraz and Daniil Medvedev.
Djokovic's first-round opponent will be a qualifier, and potential match-ups include Andy Murray, Gael Monfils, and Ben Shelton. Jannik Sinner, who defeated Djokovic in the 2023 ATP Finals, could be a potential semifinal opponent. Despite his recent loss, Djokovic remains the man to beat.
The 2024 Australian Open will be an important milestone for Djokovic as he looks to secure his place in the record books.
The Coco Era
After winning her first major title at the US Open in September, Coco Gauff aims to continue her success at the 2024 Australian Open. She started the year strong by winning the Auckland tournament, defeating Elina Svitolina in the final. Gauff's victory in Auckland has given her confidence and momentum heading into the Australian Open.
Gauff has twice reached the Round of 16 at the Australian Open and is eager to add another major title to her growing collection. With her self-belief and fan support, Gauff is poised for a strong performance in Melbourne.
Her performance in the tournament will be closely watched as she continues to make her mark on the tennis world.
The Comeback Kids
Several players will be making their major return after a lengthy absence at the 2024 Australian Open. This includes former champions Naomi Osaka and Angelique Kerber, who are coming back from maternity leave.
Osaka made her season debut in Brisbane this month and reached the second round before losing to Karolina Pliskova in a thrilling match. Kerber officially returned to competition at the United Cup and showed glimpses of her vintage form.
Other players making a comeback include Emma Raducanu, Amanda Anisimova, and Marin Cilic. These players will be looking to make a strong impact in their first Slam back.
American (red, white and) blues
The American men have not won a major title in 21 years, and hopes are high that this streak will end at the 2024 Australian Open. Players like Ben Shelton, Taylor Fritz, Tommy Paul, and Frances Tiafoe have shown potential and are capable of making a deep run in the tournament.
Shelton had a breakout year in 2023, reaching the quarterfinals at the Australian Open and the semifinals at the US Open. Fritz won two titles in 2023 and reached the quarters at the US Open. Paul was a semifinalist in Melbourne in 2023, while Tiafoe has reached the quarterfinals at the Australian Open and the semis at the US Open in previous years.
While the competition will be tough, these American players are determined to end the drought and bring home a major title.
