Novak Djokovic makes shock decision ahead of the Australian Open

Novak Djokovic makes shock decision ahead of the Australian Open originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Novak Djokovic is enduring a tumultuous preparation for the Australian Open after being forced to withdraw from the Adelaide International.

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The 38-year-old revealed his decision via his Instagram account and while not mentioning a specific injury, explained he wasn't physically ready the South Australian event.

Djokovic did mention his commitment to the Australian Open, with his participation and performance levels for the first grand slam of the year now in question.

"To all my fans in Adelaide, unfortunately I'm not quite physically ready to compete in the Adelaide International next week," the 24-time major winner wrote on Instagram.

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"It's personally very disappointing to me, as I have such great memories of winning the title there [in 2023].

"I was really excited about returning as it truly felt like playing at home.

"My focus is now on my preparation for the Australian Open and I look forward to arriving in Melbourne soon and seeing all the tennis fans in Australia."

Djokovic has now not played a competitive match for nearly two months - with his last a title win over Lorenzo Musetti at the ATP Athens 250 in early November.

With his decision to skip Adelaide, Djokovic's first match of the season will likely come at the Australian Open, where he will be seeded fourth.