Novak Djokovic withdraws from ATP Finals due to injury
Novak Djokovic has withdrawn from the ATP Finals for the second consecutive year, with the Serb announcing the news after securing his 101st career title in a gruelling three-hour final at the Hellenic Championship, reports BritPanorama.
The 24-time Grand Slam winner cited a shoulder injury as the reason for his withdrawal, which prevents him from competing in Turin, where the season-ending tournament for the top eight men’s players is set to begin on Sunday.
In a statement on social media, Djokovic expressed his disappointment: “I’m sad to share that I need to withdraw due to an ongoing injury. It is never easy stepping away, especially from a tournament that means a great deal to me.”
His absence opens the door for Lorenzo Musetti to enter the tournament as a replacement, a bitter twist given that Musetti was denied qualification due to his defeat to Djokovic in Saturday’s final. This withdrawal alters the competition landscape, removing the most accomplished indoor player in the sport’s history.
Djokovic, who has won the ATP Finals a record seven times, solidified this status with a last-minute victory over Musetti, rallying from a set down to secure his place in tennis history with a milestone achievement. Notably, his victory marked his 72nd title on hard courts, surpassing Roger Federer in career singles titles.
The final itself was marked by intense physical exchanges, highlighted by the last set containing five service breaks. Djokovic echoed the match’s intensity, stating, “An incredible battle. Three hours of a grueling match, physically. I’m just very proud of myself to get through this one.”
Despite the loss, Musetti considered his performance a highlight amidst his recent struggles, facing Djokovic in what was arguably one of the strongest showings of his season. As the tournament prepares to continue without Djokovic, the focus shifts to new opportunities for those who will compete in his stead.
Djokovic’s decision underscores the importance of fitness management as he navigates the closing stages of another successful season, further adding intrigue to the upcoming ATP Finals.
In the world of elite sport, sometimes the fiercest of rivals aren’t merely the players on the court, but the injuries they wrestle with — a reminder of the fine line between triumph and adversity that every athlete walks.
