Novak Djokovic, the reigning champion of the Cincinnati Open, has withdrawn from the upcoming ATP Masters 1000 tournament due to a quick turnaround from his Olympic triumph in Tokyo. The Serbian star, who recently won his first Olympic gold medal in singles, will not be able to defend his title in Cincinnati, which begins next week.
Djokovic’s withdrawal is a significant blow to the tournament, as he has been a dominant force in Cincinnati in recent years. He has won three titles in his last five appearances, including last year’s victory over Milos Raonic. Djokovic also holds the record for most titles at the tournament, with three.
Tournament director Bob Moran expressed his understanding of Djokovic’s decision, saying, “We certainly understand that it is a quick turnaround from his Olympic triumph to come to Cincinnati. His title run here last year was so memorable. We are eager to see him on court again soon.”
Djokovic’s withdrawal means that Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard will move into the draw. The top two seeds in the tournament, Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, have yet to win this Masters 1000 event.
Djokovic’s absence from Cincinnati is likely to impact his preparation for the US Open, the final Grand Slam of the year. He will now head into the tournament without competing in a hard-court event since Wimbledon.
Despite his withdrawal from Cincinnati, Djokovic remains one of the favorites to win the US Open. He has won the tournament three times in the past, including in 2018 and 2020.
