Novak Djokovic has withdrawn from next week’s Madrid Open as he continues to manage a shoulder injury that has kept him out of action for over a month.
The 38-year-old Serbian, a 24-time Grand Slam champion and former world number one, last competed at Indian Wells, where he was beaten in the fourth round by Britain’s Jack Draper.
Since then, he has not returned to competition.
Confirming his absence from the Spanish tournament, Djokovic took to Instagram on Friday to share a brief message with fans.
“Madrid, unfortunately I won’t be able to compete this year,” the Serbian 38-year-old posted on Instagram on Friday.
“I’m continuing my recovery in order to be back soon. Hasta pronto!”
Djokovic’s recent schedule has been disrupted by injury and fatigue. He exited the Australian Open final in February after defeat to Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz and later skipped the Doha Open, citing tiredness.
He also missed subsequent Masters 1000 events in Miami and Monte Carlo while nursing the shoulder problem.
So far this year, he has featured in only two tournaments, with his latest setback raising fresh concerns over his preparation for Roland Garros, the second Grand Slam of the season in Paris, which begins in just a few weeks.
