Djokovic to make unprecedented decision ahead of the 2025 US Open

For the first time in 20 years, Novak Djokovic will arrive at the US Open without playing a single match in either the Canadian or Cincinnati Masters. The Serbian legend, now 38, has opted to skip the entire summer hard-court swing, prioritizing recovery and long-term planning over warm-up tournaments

Djokovic hasn’t competed since his semifinal loss to Jannik Sinner at Wimbledon, where he was already dealing with groin discomfort. His decision to withdraw from Toronto and Cincinnati—citing injury and non-medical reasons respectively—reflects a strategic shift: fewer tournaments, more focus on Grand Slams.

No Ranking Risk

Because he wasn’t defending points in either Masters 1000 event, his ATP ranking remains stable at No. 7. This calculated absence avoids jeopardizing his seeding at Flushing Meadows.

‘Nole’ joined the Jack Draper (5th), who is suffering from discomfort in his left arm, and Grigor Dimitrov (20th) as the most notable absences at the tournament.

Djokovic eyeing elusive 25th Grand Slam title

Djokovic’s goal is crystal clear: win his 25th Grand Slam title in New York. He last triumphed at the US Open in 2023, defeating Daniil Medvedev in the final. Despite the lack of match play, Djokovic has a history of peaking at majors—even with minimal preparation.

Skipping the hard-court lead-up means Djokovic will face the fast-paced conditions of the US Open without recent match rhythm. But as his Davis Cup teammate Dusan Lajovic put it: “For 97% of players, this would be a problem. For Novak, it’s not”.

He’s betting everything on his ability to adapt quickly and endure the physical demands of a two-week Grand Slam. It’s a bold move—but if anyone can pull it off, it’s Djokovic.

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