Novak Djokovic withdraws from Adelaide International
Novak Djokovic will not play in a preliminary tournament before the Australian Open and has decided to withdraw from next week’s Adelaide International because he is not “physically ready”.
It was Djokovic’s second major announcement just days after announcing on Monday that he was leaving the Professional Tennis Players Association, which he co-founded, because its values no longer aligned with the direction of the organization.
Novak Djokovic will not play in the only scheduled Australian Open preliminary tournament.Credit: access point
The 38-year-old 24-time grand slam champion is seeking a record-extending 11th title at Melbourne Park but is increasingly selective about when and where he plays.
“To all my fans in Adelaide, unfortunately I’m not quite ready to compete at the Adelaide International next week,” Djokovic said on social media.
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“This is very disappointing for me personally as I have very good memories of winning the championship there two years ago. [actually 2023]. I was really excited to come back because it really felt like I was playing at home.
“My focus right now is on preparing for the Australian Open and I look forward to arriving in Melbourne soon and seeing all the tennis fans in Australia.”
More to come
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