Novak Djokovic was drawn from the Italian Open on Tuesday in the middle of a three-game losing streak, raising doubts about how well he will play in the upcoming French Open as he continues to win his record 25th Grand Slam trophy and 100th tournament title.
The Claycourt event in Rome, which will be held next month, posted on social media that Djokovic would not be taking part in, writing, “Now, see Nords next year.”
Djokovic struggled this season, dropping his last three contests in a row, just 12-6. Miami Open, Monte Carlos Masters, Madrid Open on Saturday.
After losing 6-3, 6-4 to Matteo Arnald in Spain, Djokovic said: “It’s a completely different feeling than what I’ve had in over 20 years of professional tennis. It’s a challenge to actually face this kind of feeling in court and get out early in the tournament.”
He ranks number one over other tennis players, but is currently fifth. His only title in 2024 or 2025 was the gold medal he claimed for beating Carlos Alcaraz in the final of the Parisio Games in August.
Djokovic has repeatedly said that what is important to him is now being added to his major championships. The next such event will begin in Paris on May 25th.
He had to withdraw at last year’s tournament at Roland Garros due to a knee injury that required surgery. Djokovic was also stopped during the Australian opening this January after the hamstring muscles were torn apart.