Novak Djokovic has withdrawn from the upcoming Mutua Madrid Open due to injury, tournament organisers confirmed on Friday, dealing a blow to fans hoping to see the three-time champion in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 outing at the BNP Paribas Open in March and had already skipped the Miami Open later that month because of a right shoulder issue. Djokovic, who last lifted the Madrid title in 2019, was expected to be one of the headline attractions again this year.Announcing the development, the tournament shared on X, “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.”
Madrid Open post
Djokovic also confirmed his absence with a message of his own, writing, “Madrid, unfortunately, I won’t be able to compete @MutuaMadridOpen this year. I’m continuing my recovery in order to be back soon. Hasta pronto!”
Novak Djokovic post
The 38-year-old endured a mixed run 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 at Indian Wells.In that contest, Draper secured a notable 4-6, 6-4, 7-6(5) victory in a tightly fought Round of 16 clash, edging the deciding tie-break to register one of the biggest wins of his career at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden in California.Despite the setback, Djokovic is expected to return in time for the Internazionali BNL d’Italia, scheduled to take place from May 6 to 17, as he continues his recovery.
