Novak missed a chance to clinch it last year in Malaga, squandering three match points against Jannik Sinner in the semi-final. Serbia led against Italy following Miomir Kecmanovic's triumph over Lorenzo Musetti. The 24-time Major winner faced an in-form rival in the second tie, battling against Sinner for the third time within 11 days.

Aug 26, 2024; Flushing, NY, USA; Novak Djokovic (SRB) reacts after missing a shot against Radu Albot (MDA) (not pictured) in a men's singles match on day one of the 2024 U.S. Open tennis tournament at USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images / Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

Jannik Sinner has hired two of Novak Djokovic’s former coaches as the World No.1 shakes up his backroom team following his doping scandal. Sinner stormed to his second Grand Slam triumph at the US Open earlier this month but it was a drama-filled fortnight for the Italian who escaped a doping ban on the eve of the tournament.

Novak Djokovic has confirmed hie plans for the final phase of is career - but he is creating one obvious problem.