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Novak Djokovic Withdraws from Madrid Open, Casts Doubt on Clay Season

Novak Djokovic has officially withdrawn from the upcoming Madrid Open as he continues to recover from an injury. The Serbian star announced his decision on social media, stating he is not yet fully fit to compete. Djokovic, a three-time champion in Madrid, has been sidelined for a month and also recently missed the Monte Carlo Masters. His participation in the next scheduled event, the Italian Open, remains uncertain and dependent on his recovery.

Key Points: Djokovic Withdraws from Madrid Open Due to Injury

  • Withdraws due to injury
  • Hasn't played for a month
  • Missed Monte Carlo Masters
  • Three-time Madrid champion
  • Next scheduled for Italian Open
2 min read

Novak Djokovic pulls out of Madrid Open due to injury

Novak Djokovic pulls out of the Madrid Open, citing injury and recovery time. The 24-time Grand Slam champion's clay-court season is in question.

"Madrid, unfortunately, I won't be able to compete... I'm continuing my recovery to be back soon. - Novak Djokovic"

New Delhi, April 17

The 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic has officially withdrawn from the Madrid Open, which is set to commence on April 23, due to injury. Djokovic announced on Friday through a post on X. According to the Serbian star, he is not fully fit and is giving proper time in recovery to get back soon.

"Madrid, unfortunately, I won't be able to compete @MutuaMadridOpen this year. I'm continuing my recovery to be back soon. 'Hasta pronto!" Djokovic tweeted.

In a statement, tournament organisers wrote: "Novak Djokovic, a three-time #MMOPEN champion, will not be able to participate in this year's tournament. We hope to see you back here as soon as possible so we can enjoy your tennis as we have done so many times in the Caja Magica."

The 39-year-old has been out of action for the past month. He last faced Jack Draper in the fourth round of Indian Wells, where he lost by 4-6, 6-4, 7-6 (5).

World No.4 has played just two tournaments this year, finishing runner-up at the Australian Open and reaching the round of 16 in Indian Wells. He cited a right shoulder injury as the reason for his Miami Open withdrawal last month.

Djokovic also missed the recently concluded Monte Carlo Masters, where Jainik Sinner beat Carlos Alcaraz to clinch the title for the first time.

Djokovic, the most successful player in the Open Era of tennis with 24 Grand Slam, titles, has won the Madrid Open three times in his career. He secured the ATP Masters 1000 clay-court title in 2011, 2016, and 2019. He also has a good winning ratio in the tournament. The tennis star has won 30 matches and lost only ten in Madrid Open history.

Djokovic is next signed up for the Italian Open, which is also a clay court masters event and will commence on May 8. However, the Serb's participation will depend upon his fitness in the coming days.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Honestly, a bit disappointed. Was hoping to see him battle the young guns like Sinner and Alcaraz on clay. The tour feels incomplete without the World No. 1. Hope he's 100% for the Italian Open and the French.
A
Arjun K
His priorities are clear - the Grand Slams. At his age, he's managing his calendar like a master. Skipping Masters events to peak for Paris and Wimbledon is a smart, champion's move. Respect.
S
Sarah B
As a sports physio, this is very common. A shoulder injury for a tennis player is serious. Rushing back on clay, which is physically demanding, could make it worse. Full recovery is key.
V
Vikram M
It opens the door for others. Great chance for players like Rune or Rublev to grab a big title. The new generation needs to step up when the king is absent. Makes the tournament more unpredictable!
K
Karthik V
With all due respect to his achievements, maybe it's time to accept that Father Time is undefeated. The frequent withdrawals this year show the grind is taking a toll. Hope he has one last deep run at a major left in him.

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