Novak Djokovic has decided to withdraw from the Madrid Open, citing his ongoing recovery from a shoulder injury as the main reason.
Djokovic, who holds the record of 24 Grand Slam titles, shared his decision to skip the event on social media pointing out that his main focus now is on rehab and making sure he gets back in top shape. Recently, physical issues have kept him from playing quite a few times as he was forced to not only pull out of the Miami Open but also had to give up Monte Carlo Masters.
At 38, Djokovic had originally thought he might be able to play in Madrid, showing up in the Spanish capital just a few days ago. Nevertheless, the led to discomfort and as a result, he has gone for a more conservative plan so a comeback at Roland Garros, slated for May 24, is feasible.
Not only has his health faltered, but his performance has suffered as well. After losing in the final of the Australian Open to Carlos Alcaraz, he was knocked out in the fourth round of Indian Wells by Jack Draper.
Now that the season on clay is heating up, the Serbian star will mainly concentrate on his fitness recovery as he goes for his 25th Grand Slam title a record-breaking one at the French Open, where he is still among the top contenders, even though his preparation has been quite limited.
