Djokovic withdraws from Madrid Open amid ongoing injury concerns
Fans of Novak Djokovic have been left disappointed after the 24-time Grand Slam champion confirmed that he will miss the upcoming Madrid Open due to ongoing injury issues. The decision comes as concerns grow over his fitness ahead of the French Open, which is just a month away.
Djokovic has played only two tournaments so far this season—the Australian Open and Indian Wells—raising questions about his physical condition and readiness for the remainder of the clay-court swing. His struggles have been particularly noticeable during the build-up to one of tennis’s most demanding periods.
The Serbian star has been dealing with a persistent shoulder injury that has already forced him to withdraw from multiple events, including Miami and Monte Carlo earlier this year. On Friday, he officially confirmed that he would not participate in next week’s Madrid Open, a key tournament in the lead-up to Roland Garros.
In a message shared on X, Djokovic wrote: “Madrid, unfortunately I won’t be able to compete this year. I’m continuing my recovery in order to be back soon.” The statement confirmed that his priority at this stage is rehabilitation rather than competition.
The 38-year-old’s recent form has been inconsistent, largely due to physical setbacks. He suffered a defeat to Carlos Alcaraz in the Australian Open final in February, before losing to Jack Draper in the fourth round of Indian Wells. Shortly after, he withdrew from the Miami Open due to a right shoulder injury.
Djokovic had also previously pulled out of the Doha Open due to fatigue, further adding to concerns about his conditioning. Despite these setbacks, he remained hopeful earlier this week, telling Spanish broadcaster Movistar+ during a EuroLeague basketball event in Madrid that he was “struggling physically a little bit with an injury,” but still optimistic about potentially competing.
However, his condition did not improve enough for him to take part in Madrid. The Madrid Open, where Djokovic has been a three-time champion, is scheduled to begin next week, with the official draw set to take place on Monday.
Looking ahead, Djokovic is currently expected to return at the Italian Open in Rome, scheduled from May 6 to May 17. That tournament will serve as his final major preparation before the French Open, which begins on May 24 in Paris. At Roland Garros, he will once again aim to capture a historic 25th Grand Slam title.
For now, fans will have to wait for updates on his recovery as the tennis legend continues rehabilitation with hopes of returning to full fitness soon.