Djokovic to play Aussie Open tuneup in Brisbane

Novak Djokovic will begin his preparations for next month's Australian Open by playing at the Brisbane International warmup tournament, he said Wednesday.

Djokovic, who is seeking an 11th Australian Open title and 25th Grand Slam, will compete alongside defending Brisbane champion Grigor Dimitrov at the ATP 250 event, which starts on Dec. 29.

Holger Rune and Frances Tiafoe are among those also taking part.

"I'm excited to be kicking off my Australian swing at the Brisbane International and to compete again at Pat Rafter Arena," Djokovic, 37, said in a statement.

The Australian Open main draw is scheduled to begin on Jan. 12.

Djokovic to play Aussie Open tuneup in Brisbane

Djokovic to play Aussie Open tuneup in Brisbane

Djokovic to play Aussie Open tuneup in Brisbane

Djokovic to play Aussie Open tuneup in Brisbane

Djokovic to play Aussie Open tuneup in Brisbane