Novak Djokovic withdraws from tournament as statement released | Tennis | Sport
Novak Djokovic has withdrawn from the Adelaide International because he’s “not quite physically ready to compete.” The record ten-time Australian Open champion released a statement on Monday via social media confirming the decision.
On social media, Djokovic said: “To all my fans in Adelaide, unfortunately, I’m not quite physically ready to compete in the Adelaide International next week. It’s personally very disappointing to me as I have such great memories of winning the title there two years ago.
“I was really excited about returning, as it truly felt like playing at home. My focus is now on my preparation for the Australian Open, and I look forward to arriving in Melbourne soon and seeing all the tennis fans in Australia.”
Tennis Australia had described this year’s men’s fields as one of the strongest in Adelaide’s history. The entry list also included Jack Draper, who has since withdrawn from the entire Australian swing.
Alejandro Davidovich Fokina (No.14), Jiri Lehecka (No.19) and Tommy Paul (No.20) are now the only top-20 players set to feature when the tournament’s main draw starts on Monday, 12 January. Lehecka beat Draper in the 2024 final, a year after Djokovic beat Sebastian Korda.
Play at the Brisbane International is currently ongoing, with Fokina, Lehecka, and Paul all participating, alongside world No.13 Daniil Medvedev. The top-30 players include Cameron Norrie (No.28), Denis Shapovalov (No.23) and Learner Tien (No.26). Joao Fonseca (No.29) has withdrawn due to a back injury.
Australian Open main draw action begins on 18 January, so Djokovic still has just under two weeks to get physically ready to compete. The men’s singles final at Rod Laver Arena, which the Serbian last reached in 2023 when beating Stefanos Tsitsipas, will be on 1 February.
Monday’s social media statement is his second in the space of 24 hours. Djokovic’s first announcement, on Sunday, confirmed that he’s leaving the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA).
It read: “After careful consideration, I have decided to step away completely from the Professional Tennis Players Association. This decision comes after ongoing concerns regarding transparency, governance, and the way my voice and image have been represented.
“I am proud of the vision that Vasek and I shared when founding the PTPA, giving players a stronger, independent voice – but it has become clear that my values and approach are no longer aligned with the current direction of the organisation.
“I will continue to focus on my tennis, my family, and contributing to the sport in ways that reflect my principles and integrity. I wish the players and those involved the best as they move forward, but for me, this chapter is now closed.”
