Out-of-form Djokovic withdraws from Italian Open

Novak Djokovic will not play in the Italian Open next week. This is another setback for the 24-time Grand Slam winner as he prepares for Roland Garros.

Djokovic has participated in Rome every year since 2007. He has won the event six times, with his last victory in 2022.

Tournament organizers announced on social media that Djokovic will not compete in 2025. They did not provide a reason for his withdrawal.

Djokovic shared on Instagram, "Rome, I will miss you. I hope we meet next year."

This news follows his early exit at the Madrid Open last week. The 37-year-old has had a challenging start to the year.

Djokovic has not won any major titles this season. His last title was at the 2024 Olympics in Paris.

Currently ranked fifth in the world, he faced early exits in Monte Carlo and Madrid recently. After losing to Matteo Arnaldi in Spain, Djokovic hinted it might be his last Madrid Open appearance.

"It is kind of a new reality for me," he said after his loss. "I have to say, trying to win a match or two."

His withdrawal from Rome means he may not play before the French Open starts on May 26. Djokovic has previously won three French Open titles.