2024 also marked the first year since 2017 that Novak Djokovic didn't win a Slam. Looking even further back, it also marked the first season since 2002 in which none of the big four - namely the aforementioned Serbian maestro, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Andy Murray - managed to capture a major. But it wasn't all doom and gloom for Nole as he managed to capture the one prize that has eluded him throughout his stellar career, an Olympic Gold Medal.The GOAT managed to beat Carlos Alcaraz on the clay courts in Paris in a thrilling gold medal match to win a classic. Djokovic was far more emotional than we have ever seen him before, visibly in tears following the victory before composing himself to party long into the night upon his return to Belgrade, celebrating alongside compatriots such as NBA star Nikola Jokic. Next year, the veteran will be aiming to add further silverware to his already overflowing trophy cabinet, but is he a favourite to end his year-long Slam drought? Let's find out.

The short answer to that question is yes. Despite not winning a Slam last term, Djokovic will head into 2025 in a familiar position: tournament favourite. The latest sports betting at Bovada odds currently makes the Serbian icon a +175 favourite to start next year with a bang by winning the Australian Open. Nole is the most successful player in history on the famed Melbourne hard courts, romping to glory a whopping ten times throughout his hall of fame career, and he will look to make it 11 in January.Djokovic's remarkable consistency and tactical brilliance make him a formidable opponent, especially in the Land Down Under. Known for his incredible flexibility and defensive skills, Djokovic can outlast his competitors in gruelling rallies, a crucial asset under the sweltering Australian sun.Despite his advancing years, the 37-year-old has maintained an exceptional level of fitness. His recent form suggests that he is as formidable as ever, especially that triumph in Paris. Last year, he was stunned in the semifinals by the rampant eventual champion Sinner, and he will be out for redemption in a few months.

After winning the French Open for the first time last year, Carlos Alcaraz is the +150 favourite to retain his crown in June as he looks set to follow in the footsteps of legendary compatriot Rafael Nadal, who recently announced his retirement. The young Spanish sensation has drawn comparisons to the King of Clay thanks to his aggressive baseline play and impressive footwork, and now he looks poised and ready to claim the clay court throne for himself.In recent seasons, Alcaraz has shown remarkable growth, capturing several titles and climbing to the top spot in the ATP Rankings. He managed to win in the City of Love last season, and now he will be aiming to embark upon a winning streak like that of his idol. Nadal romped to glory a remarkable 14 times in Paris, and if his young understudy can get anywhere near that total then he will surely secure all-time great status.

Alcaraz is also the favourite to win at Wimbledon, with the bookies making him a +130 frontrunner. The Spaniard has been the dominant force at the All-England Club in recent years, claiming the famous gold trophy in each of the last two years. He famously edged out Novak Djokovic on Centre Court in 2023, winning a five-set thriller. This year, he asserted his dominance, crushing Djokovic in straight sets and announcing that he was now the player to beat, rather than his veteran rival.Next year, he will be aiming to become just the fourth man in history to claim three successive Wimbledon crowns. After his performances at the tournament last year, it would take a brave punter to back against him.

2024 was the year of Jannik Sinner. He famously won the Australian Open back in January, before going on to claim his second-ever Slam in New York City nine months later. Next year, he is the favourite to retain his crown at Flushing Meadows, with the bookies pricing him at +200. Now, attention turns to the Italian sensation and whether he can handle the pressure of heading into a tournament as a favourite, rather than an underdog.