Watch: Novak Djokovic and Serbian teammates celebrate New Year on tennis court after United Cup win

People across the world ushered in the new year in grand fashion, many partying the night away in bars and nightclubs or in the comfort of their homes. For tennis icon Novak Djokovic, however, the New Year’s Eve celebrations took place on the court shortly after he played a starring role in his team’s 2-1 victory over China in the United Cup. Djokovic, a 24-time Grand Slam champion, had defeated world No 58 Zhang Zhizhen 6-3, 6-2 in singles in his opening fixture of the international team-based tournament at Perth’s RAC Arena. He would then team up with Olga Danilovic to defeat the Chinese pair of Zhang and Zheng Qinwen 6-4, 1-6, 10-6 to help Serbia clinch victory in the tie and begin their campaign on an ideal note. Read | Novak Djokovic relishing being back in his 'happy place' Australia Djokovic, however, was busy looking at the watch at the time of the doubles clash, and he and Danilovic secured victory at the stroke of midnight. After the victory, the Serbian superstar would implore the house DJ to fill in for a bit before calling for the spectators present at the arena to join him and his teammates for a countdown to 2024. Watch the celebrations here:

About last night 🎆

Ringing in the new year with Team Serbia and our Aussie fans 🥳 How good!

Happy 2024 to all of our international fans 🎉#UnitedCup pic.twitter.com/lqqTLVQAAN

— United Cup (@UnitedCupTennis) January 1, 2024

“Thanks to the fans for staying this late. We’re glad you decided to spend this special night with us,” Djokovic said after the game. Not only is the 36-year-old the most decorated among the active players on the circuit, he is also one victory away a 25th Grand Slam that will take him past Margaret Court’s all-time record. Djokovic will be hoping to achieve the historic feat at the Australian Open that starts in Melbourne later this month.