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Djokovic Withdraws from Adelaide, Exits Players Association He Co-Founded

Novak Djokovic has withdrawn from next week's Adelaide International, stating he is not physically prepared to compete. The former world number one expressed disappointment but said his focus is now squarely on preparing for the Australian Open. In a separate development, Djokovic also announced he is stepping away completely from the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA), which he co-founded. He cited concerns over transparency, governance, and the representation of his voice as reasons for his departure.

Key Points: Novak Djokovic Withdraws from Adelaide International

  • Withdraws from Adelaide International warm-up event
  • Cites not being physically ready to compete
  • Shifts focus to Australian Open preparation
  • Announces complete exit from PTPA players' association
2 min read

'Physically not ready', Djokovic pulls out of next week's Adelaide International

Novak Djokovic pulls out of the Adelaide International, citing physical readiness, and announces his complete exit from the PTPA players' association.

"I'm not quite physically ready to compete in the Adelaide International next week. - Novak Djokovic"

Adelaide, Jan 5

Former World No.1 and the world's most successful player, Novak Djokovic, has decided to pull out of next week's Adelaide International, the build-up event for the year's first Grand Slam tournament, the Australian Open. Djokovic, who has won 24 Grand Slam titles so far, claimed he is not physically ready to compete in the Adelaide International and therefore has pulled out of the event.

"To all my fans in Adelaide, unfortunately, I'm not quite physically ready to compete in the Adelaide International next week," said Djokovic in a statement issued via social media on Monday. "It's personally very disappointing as I have such great memories of winning the title there two years ago. I was really excited about returning as it truly felt like playing at home," Djokovic further said in his statement.

Djokovic said his focus now is on getting ready for the Australian Open. The 38-year-old Serbian has won the Australian Open title 10 times, lifting the crown in 2008, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2015, 2016, 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2023.

"My focus is now on my preparation for the Australian Open, and I look forward to arriving in Melbourne soon and seeing all the tennis fans in Australia," said Djokovic in his statement on social media.

Earlier in the day, Djokovic said he has "stepped away completely from the Professional Tennis Players Association, which he co-founded, citing concerns regarding "ongoing transparency and governance.

Djokovic and Canadian tennis player Vasek Pospisil founded the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA) as a not-for-profit corporation to ensure players have a unified, independent voice in shaping the future of professional tennis.

"After careful consideration, I have decided to step away completely from the Professional Tennis Players Association. This decision comes after ongoing concerns regarding transparency, governance, and the way my voice and image have been represented," Djokovic posted on X.

"I am proud of the vision that Vasek and I shared when founding the PTPA, giving players a stronger, independent voice - but it has become clear that my values and approach are no longer aligned with the current direction of the organisation," the post read.

"I will continue to focus on my tennis, my family, and contributing to the sport in ways that reflect my principles and integrity. I wish the players and those involved the best as they move forward, but for me, this chapter is now closed," he added.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
It's a bit disappointing for the fans in Adelaide, but health comes first. The bigger news is him leaving the PTPA he founded. That's a major statement about governance issues in tennis.
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Ananya R
As a tennis fan, I respect his decision. He's a legend and knows what he's doing. But honestly, pulling out of the PTPA is a bigger deal. Shows principles matter more than positions. Good for him! 👏
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Vikram M
Ten Australian Opens! That record is insane. He's being strategic. Focus all energy on the Slam. Hope he's fit and we get another epic Djokovic vs. Alcaraz or Sinner final in Melbourne.
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Karthik V
I understand the physical part, but stepping away from the players' association he started is a strong message. Transparency issues must be serious. Takes guts to walk away from your own creation.
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Priya S
A bit of a mixed feeling. It's sad for the tournament, but his priority is clear. The GOAT debate in tennis is settled for me. His focus and longevity are just unmatched. Get well soon, Nole!

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