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4w ago

Novak Djokovic Withdraws from Italian Open, Raising Concerns for French Open

The 24-time Grand Slam champion exits Rome for the first time since 2007 after a rare losing streak and without a clay-court win this season.

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Tennis - Madrid Open - Park Manzanares, Madrid, Spain - April 26, 2025 Serbia's Novak Djokovic reacts during his round of 64 match against Italy's Matteo Arnaldi REUTERS/Juan Medina/File Photo
Tennis - Madrid Open - Park Manzanares, Madrid, Spain - April 26, 2025 Serbia's Novak Djokovic reacts during his round of 64 match against Italy's Matteo Arnaldi REUTERS/Juan Medina

Overview

  • Djokovic announced his withdrawal from the Italian Open, breaking an 18-year streak of participation in the tournament.
  • The decision follows a three-match losing streak, including an early exit at the Madrid Open to world No. 44 Matteo Arnaldi.
  • This marks Djokovic's first clay-court season without a match victory heading into Roland Garros, where he seeks a record 25th Grand Slam title.
  • Physical and mental challenges, including recovery from past injuries and adapting to a 'new reality,' have impacted his recent form.
  • The withdrawal intensifies questions about Djokovic's readiness for the French Open, with no titles yet in 2025 and his lowest ATP ranking in years at No. 5.