Novak Djokovic, the 22-time grand slam champion, has withdrawn from the Madrid Open, only weeks ahead of the French Open, citing a persisting elbow injury. The news has left the tennis world stunned, marking the first time since 2002 that neither Djokovic nor Rafael Nadal has played the tournament.
Djokovic’s withdrawal from Madrid Open
Djokovic’s struggles in the Srpska Open, where he lost 6-4, 7-6 to Dusan Lajovic, and in Monte Carlo, where he was shockingly eliminated by Lorenzo Musetti, had already raised concerns about his form entering the clay court season. Ahead of the Madrid Open, Djokovic addressed his elbow injury, telling reporters that it was “not in an ideal shape but good enough to be ready for the first match,” and that he had “turned over a new leaf.”
However, the Madrid Open released a statement announcing that Djokovic had withdrawn from the tournament due to the persisting injury. “Novak Djokovic is unable to compete at the Madrid Open. Wishing you a speedy recovery, we hope to see you back on court as soon as possible,” the tournament wrote.
The news has left tennis fans concerned about the upcoming French Open, with Djokovic’s injury being described as “worrisome.” This also marks the first time in the tournament’s history that neither Djokovic, Nadal, nor Roger Federer has played in the tournament. The Madrid Open has never featured a competition without at least one of these tennis greats.
Djokovic is yet to comment on the announcement by the tournament regarding his withdrawal from the Madrid Open, but the World No.1 has missed the tournament before in 2021, which saw him go on to win the French Open.
Looking ahead to Rome Open
It is now believed that Djokovic may be looking ahead to defending his Rome Open title, which he won last year. Meanwhile, Nadal, who has won a record eight Madrid Open titles, declared last week that his recovery had not progressed as planned and that he could not take part in the tournament.
The tennis world has been left reeling by the news of Djokovic’s withdrawal, with his absence from the Madrid Open adding to the concerns about his fitness ahead of the French Open. Nonetheless, Djokovic remains a formidable force on clay and will undoubtedly be looking to regain his form as he defends his title in Rome.
