Record 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic has withdrawn from the Italian Open in Rome, scheduled for May 7–18, tournament organisers announced Tuesday.
“Novak Djokovic has announced he won’t take part in #IBI25. See you next year, Nole,” read a post on the event’s official social media accounts. No reason was given for the 37-year-old’s withdrawal.
Djokovic, a six-time champion in Rome, has endured a rocky start to 2025 and is yet to win a title this season. His most recent trophy came at the Paris Olympics last year.
The Serbian world No. 5 lost the Miami Open final to teenage sensation Jakub Mensik, followed by early exits on clay in Monte Carlo and Madrid—falling to Alejandro Tabilo and Matteo Arnaldi, respectively.
Ahead of the clay season, Djokovic revealed he had been battling the effects of an eye infection. His quest for a 100th ATP title now shifts focus to the French Open, beginning in late May at Roland Garros.
