Dino Prizmic charts his own path in Jeddah as Novak Djokovic’s praise lingers | ATP Tour

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Prizmich charts his own path in Jeddah, Djokovic’s praise lingers

Croatian wins two ATP Challenger trophies in 2025

December 18, 2025

“I like the way he uses every inch of the court. He’s comfortable coming in, he’s playing defense really well…I feel like I’m playing in a mirror.”

When Novak Djokovic delivers praise like this, people tend to linger. For Dino Prizmic, it came early and was especially important while his career was still in its infancy.

The 20-year-old Croatian earned the admiration of the former world number one when he pushed Djokovic into four sets at last year’s Australian Open in their first Lexus ATP meeting. Eighteen months later, Luciano Dadri echoed the same sentiment after defeating Pryzmich in the ATP 250 quarterfinals in Umag.

“I hope he’s in the top 10 soon,” Dudley said. “I think Croatia is in good hands.”

The recognition continues to be a source of motivation rather than pressure as Prizmic competes in Jeddah this week at the Next Generation ATP Finals hosted by the PIF.

“It feels really good, but I know I need to put in a lot of hard work, especially to get into the top 10,” Prizmic told ATPTour.com in Jeddah. “I need to continue playing a lot of high-level games to get anywhere near those levels, but I’ll try.

“Is there pressure? No, definitely more confidence. There’s no pressure on that part.”

Prizmich announced his identity for the first time in 2023 when he lifted the French Open men’s singles trophy, achieving his personal goal of ending his teenage career with a Grand Slam title. His breakthrough moment soon came under the lights of Rod Laver Arena, where he went head-to-head with Djokovic on one of the sport’s grandest stages.

But this momentum stalled in 2024. A series of injuries forced Prizmic off track, limiting his schedule and disrupting his rhythm. Rather than rush back, the Croatian chose to be patient, a decision that has paid off this season.

“It was a really great year for me, especially at the end of the year. I was hitting well and running well,” Przymic said. “It’s a pleasure to come to Jeddah and participate in this tournament.

“I didn’t play a lot of games because I was still injured a little bit. I played about 15, 16 games. What I’m most proud of is, because I didn’t play a lot of games, but when I did play, I played really well.”

After returning to health, Pryzmik rebuilt his confidence at the ATP Challenger Tour, winning two titles in 2025. He also qualified for the U.S. Open main draw and earned three tour-level wins, clear signs of progress as he continues his transition to the professional ranks.

“Guys have more experience now, which is normal. But I think I’m getting used to this level,” said Przymic, who went 27-9 at this level this year. “It’s different being in the Challengers compared to the youth teams, but I think everyone can adapt.”

That adaptability will be tested again this week in Jeddah. After losing to Nishish Basavareddy in his opening match, Przymik faces a must-win fight against Justin Engel on Thursday as he looks to keep his campaign alive.

At just 20 years old, the Croatian remains focused on steady growth rather than expectations of rapid development. The praise is there. The talent is evident. While the road ahead may be twisty, the Croats appear ready for every course correction.