anxiety looms as Djokovic skips Rome's clay-court event next month
Tennis player Novak Djokovic withdraws from the Italian Open competition after losing in his last three encounters.
Tennis ace Novak Djokovic announced his absence from the Italian Open, citing a three-match losing streak that's cast a shadow over his ability to dominate at the upcoming French Open, his quest for a record 25th Grand Slam title.
The Italian Open, set for next month, broke the news on social media, writing, "So long till next year, Nole." Djokovic, 37, is a Serbian powerhouse known by his nickname, Nole.
His recent performances have been lackluster, with a 12-6 record this season and three consecutive losses at the Miami Open, Monte Carlo Masters, and Madrid Open.
Following his defeat to Matteo Arnaldi 6-3, 6-4 in Spain, Djokovic admitted: " I'm dealing with a strange feeling I haven't experienced in over two decades of professional tennis. Adjusting to this new reality is a tough mental challenge for me."
Ranked 5th in the world, Djokovic has spent more weeks holding the No. 1 spot than any other player. His only title this season was the gold medal won by beating Carlos Alcaraz in the Paris Olympics in August.
His main aim now is to add to his major championships, with the next tournament, the French Open, beginning in Paris on May 25. Djokovic had dropped out of last year's Roland Garros tournament due to a knee injury that required surgery and had to withdraw from the 2025 Australian Open due to a torn hamstring muscle.
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- Novak Djokovic
- French Open
His latest withdrawal comes as a concern for fans, who worry about his form heading into the French Open. Meanwhile, Djokovic grapples with figuring out what it takes to rebound from a string of early-round exits.
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The Italian Open, scheduled next month, announced the absence of Novak Djokovic, citing a string of losses that have raised concerns ahead of the French Open. In a recent tournament, Djokovic, the Serbian tennis star and current world No. 5, admitted to a strange feeling he hasn't experienced in over two decades of professional tennis. With his latest withdrawal, attention turns to his form as he aims to win the French Open and set a record 25th Grand Slam title. Meanwhile, the 2024 Olympics, featuring sports like football and tennis, promises to deliver exciting sports news.
