Novak Djokovic has withdrawn from the Mutua Madrid Open, confirming he will not compete at the clay-court Masters 1000 event beginning April 22, 2026. The 38-year-old Serbian announced his absence via Instagram story on Friday morning, stating he is continuing his recovery and hopes to return to competition soon.
Djokovic had been present in Madrid earlier in the week, attending a EuroLeague basketball game between Real Madrid and Crvena zvezda on Thursday evening. Speaking to Movistar after the match, he expressed uncertainty about his participation, acknowledging ongoing physical problems while saying he would attempt to play.
The following day, Djokovic confirmed his withdrawal, noting he had not competed on court since his third-round loss to Jack Draper at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells in mid-March. Despite reports of training sessions on clay in Marbella earlier in the week, he concluded he was not yet ready for the demands of the Madrid tournament.
His absence marks the second consecutive year Djokovic has missed the Madrid Open due to physical concerns. He last won the title in 2019 and had aimed to use the event as preparation for the upcoming French Open, which begins in late May.
The Mutua Madrid Open acknowledged his withdrawal in a social media post, noting his three previous victories at the tournament (2011, 2016, 2019) and expressing hope for his swift return. No specific details about the nature of his injury were disclosed in his announcement.
Djokovic’s withdrawal opens the draw for other top players seeking to gain momentum ahead of Roland Garros. The tournament proceeds as scheduled from April 22 to May 3, 2026, at the Caja Mágica in Madrid.
Archysport will continue to monitor Djokovic’s recovery and provide updates on his anticipated return to the ATP Tour.
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