Novak Djokovic pulls out of Monte Carlo Masters as statement released | Tennis | Sport

Novak Djokovic has pulled out of the Monte Carlo Masters, the tournament’s social media channels have officially confirmed. A short statement on Instagram read: “Novak Djokovic has withdrawn from the tournament. We send him our best wishes and hope to see him back on court very soon.”

The Serb has been dealing with a shoulder injury over the last few months with the issue causing him to miss the Miami Open. Djokovic did take part at Indian Wells earlier this month but was beaten by Great Britian’s Jack Draper at the round of 16 stage.

Opting out of another big tournament suggests he is yet to feel 100 per cent again and could be looking to save himself for two of the four major grand slams in Wimbledon and the French Open that arrive this summer. There are, however, some tournaments between now and then.

The Monte Carlo Masters is set to take place between April 4-12 with Carlos Alcaraz looking to defend his crown. Djokovic was eliminated by Alejandro Tabilo in the 2025 edition at the round of 32 stage. The likes of Jannik Sinner and Alexander Zverev are expected to join Alcaraz in Monaco, though.

Up first though, is the former duo facing off in the Miami Open semi-finals this evening with Arthur Fils and Jiri Lehecka going up against each other to play one of those two in the final. Alcaraz was surprisingly eliminated at the round of 32 stage by Sebastian Korda.

Djokovic was beaten by the Spaniard in the Australian Open final at Rod Laver Arena earlier this year. He did beat Lorenzo Musetti and Jakub Mensik, via walkover, on his way to the final alongside a sensational semi-final victory over Sinner.

The triumph for Alcaraz saw him become the youngest man to win Wimbledon, the Australian, US, French Open. Previous record holder Rafael Nadal was in attendance for the final with Djokovic speaking directly to his old rival as he claimed his runners-up shield.