As was expected after a marathon ATP 250 final in Athens, Novak Djokovic withdrew from the ATP Finals. Thus, the 38-year-old will miss the elite year-end event for the second straight year.
The 24-time Major winner shared the news shortly after prevailing over Lorenzo Musetti in three hours, winning his 101st ATP title and deciding to wrap up the season and rest his body.
Novak shared a message with his fans, explaining that an ongoing injury prevented him from chasing his eighth ATP Finals trophy in Turin. Lorenzo Musetti will replace the legend in the draw after missing a chance to win the title, pass Felix Auger-Aliassime and enter directly.
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Djokovic expressed deep disappointment, saying he had been eager to perform in front of the Italian fans once again. However,his body did not allow him to continue due to aninjury that has been bothering him for weeks.
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The 38-year-old thanked supporters for their continued encouragement throughout a challenging season marked by physical struggles in the closing stages. Despite that, the Serb will likely wrap up the season in the top-4, which speakvolumes about his consistency and resilience.
Novak's withdrawalmeans fans in Turin will miss out on seeing the most successful player in ATP Finals history, having won his record-breaking seventh title over Jannik Sinner in 2023.
Djokovic has secured his 18th ATP Finals appearance, matching Roger Federer's record. The Belgrade native has qualified for the premium event in every season since 2007, except 2017 when he missed the second part of the season due to injury.
The organizers in Turin did their best to welcome Novak in Turin, even changing the schedule and allowing him to play his first match on Monday instead of Sunday. However, it was not enough for the legend to change his mind.
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At this stage of his career, Djokovic picks his schedule carefully, playing only when he feels physically fine and not chasing titles and records. Novak ended his statement with optimism, promising to recover fully and return stronger in 2026.
His message carries the trademark humility and gratitude that have defined his extended career that started over two decades ago. It's a reminder that even tennis immortals must sometimes listen to their bodies.
Djokovic will kick off another season in Australia, still dreaming about notable titles in the year when he turns 39.
"I was really looking forward to competing in Turin and giving my best but after todays final in Athens, I'm sad to share that I need to withdraw due to an ongoing injury. I'm truly sorry to the fans who were hoping to see me play - your support means so much.
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I wish all the players an amazing tournament, and I can't wait to be back on the court with you all soon!" Novak Djokovic wrote.
