Novak Djokovic has withdrawn from the upcoming Mutua Madrid Open due to injury, tournament organizers confirmed on Friday, dealing a blow to fans hoping to see the three-time champion in action.The Serbian great has not competed since his appearance at the BNP Paribas Open in March and has already missed the Miami Open later that month due to a right shoulder problem. Djokovic, who last lifted the Madrid title in 2019, should have been one of the main attractions this year as well.The tournament announced the development on X: “Novak Djokovic, the three-time #MMOPEN champion, will not be able to participate in this year’s tournament. We hope to be back here as soon as possible to enjoy your tennis like so many times at the Caja Magica.”
Madrid Open post
Djokovic also confirmed his absence with his own message, writing: “Madrid, unfortunately I won’t be able to compete at the @MutuaMadridOpen this year. I’m continuing my recovery to be back soon. Hasta fast!”
contribution by Novak Djokovic
The 38-year-old has had a mixed ride in recent tournaments. He finished runner-up to Carlos Alcaraz at the Australian Open in February before suffering a fourth-round defeat to Jack Draper in Indian Wells.In that contest, Draper secured a remarkable 4-6, 6-4, 7-6(5) victory in a tight round of 16 contest to dominate the deciding tie-break and record one of the biggest victories of his career at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden in California.Despite the setback, Djokovic is expected to return in time for the May 6-17 Internazionali BNL d’Italia as he continues his recovery.
