‘Physically not ready’, Djokovic pulls out of next week’s Adelaide International

Former world No. 1 and the most successful player in men’s tennis, Novak Djokovic, has pulled out of next week’s Adelaide International, a key build-up event to the season’s first Grand Slam, the Australian Open.

Djokovic, who has won a record 24 Grand Slam titles, said he is not physically ready to compete and has therefore decided to withdraw from the tournament.

“To all my fans in Adelaide, unfortunately, I’m not quite physically ready to compete in the Adelaide International next week,” Djokovic said in a statement issued on social media on Monday. “It’s personally very disappointing, 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.”

The 38-year-old Serbian said his focus is now firmly on preparing for the Australian Open. Djokovic has won the Melbourne title 10 times — in 2008, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2015, 2016, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2023.

“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,” he added.

Earlier in the day, Djokovic also announced that he has stepped away completely from the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA), which he co-founded, citing concerns over transparency and governance.

Djokovic and Canadian tennis player Vasek Pospisil founded the PTPA as a not-for-profit organisation aimed at ensuring players have a unified and independent voice in shaping the future of professional tennis.

“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,” Djokovic posted on X.

“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,” the post read.

“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,” he added.

—IANS