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Djokovic Withdraws from Madrid Open, Aiming for Italian Open Return

4/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Novak Djokovic, the Serbian tennis player, withdrew from the Madrid Open due to a persistent right shoulder injury.
He has not competed since the BNP Paribas Open in March.
He missed the Miami Open and Monte Carlo Masters.
Djokovic posted on social media that he will not compete this year.
He aims to return at the Italian Open starting May 6, ahead of the French Open on May 24.

History

Historical Context

In 2011, the ATP Tour experienced a notable wave of player injuries, with 30% of top players, including Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray, sidelined, impacting tournament outcomes. Novak Djokovic's withdrawal from the Madrid Open echoes this trend as he recovers from a shoulder injury. Such challenges highlight the ongoing struggle athletes face in maintaining peak performance amidst physical demands.

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Story summary

Novak Djokovic, the Serbian tennis player, withdrew from the Madrid Open due to a persistent right shoulder injury.
He has not competed since the BNP Paribas Open in March.
He missed the Miami Open and Monte Carlo Masters.
Djokovic posted on social media that he will not compete this year.
He aims to return at the Italian Open starting May 6, ahead of the French Open on May 24.

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