Novak Djokovic to Skip Madrid Open, Aims for Rome Return

World number one and 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic has announced that he will not be participating in the Madrid Open this week, but is hopeful to make an appearance in Rome. The Serbian star, who has yet to win a title this season, has decided to lighten his schedule and focus on preparing for the upcoming tournaments.

Djokovic, who was named World Sportsman of the Year for the fifth time at the Laureus Awards in Madrid, expressed his disappointment at not being able to compete in Madrid but is looking forward to playing in Rome before defending his French Open title later in May.

The 36-year-old has now withdrawn from the Madrid Open three times in the last four years, citing the need to prioritize his physical preparation for the upcoming major tournaments including Roland Garros, Wimbledon, the Olympics, and the US Open.

Meanwhile, veteran tennis great Rafael Nadal will continue his comeback from injury in Madrid and is set to face 16-year-old American Darwin Blanch in the first round. Nadal, who was defeated in the second round of the Barcelona Open, will be looking to make a strong comeback in Madrid.

With Djokovic’s absence, the spotlight will be on players like Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner, and Alexander De Minaur to make their mark in the tournament. Tennis fans can expect an exciting competition as the top players battle it out on the clay courts of Madrid.