Out-of-form Djokovic withdraws from Italian Open

Novak Djokovic’s preparations for Roland Garros will be severely hampered by the 24-time Grand Slam champion’s decision to not compete in the Italian Open next week.

Since 2007, Djokovic has won the event six times, most recently in 2022, and has competed in Rome six times.

However, without any explanation, the tournament’s organizers announced on social media that the Serb would not play in 2025.

Djokovic’s troubled start to the year for the 37-year-old comes after his loss to last week’s opening match of the Madrid Open.

Djokovic, who is one victory away from his 100th ATP title, won his last major award at the Paris 2024 games.

In recent weeks, the world number five has lost early to opponents in Monte Carlo and Madrid’s clay court matches.

Djokovic made hints that this might be his final appearance at the Madrid Open after losing to Matteo Arnaldi in Italy in the previous match.

After losing in Madrid, Djokovic said, “It’s kind of a new reality for me, I must say, trying to win a match or two without really thinking about getting far in the tournament.”

Since he left Rome, he is unlikely to play another competitive game before the French Open, which will begin on May 26.