Novak Djokovic has officially announced his withdrawal from the 2024 Monte Carlo Masters. The tournament confirmed this news through its social media platforms, including a brief Instagram statement wishing him well and expressing hope for his swift return to the court.
The 38-year-old Serbian ace has been contending with a stubborn shoulder injury for an extended period. This ongoing physical concern was also the reason he pulled out of the Miami Open, a tournament he had originally intended to play.
Earlier this month at Indian Wells, Djokovic began strongly but was ultimately stopped in the Round of 16 by Great Britain’s Jack Draper. Following that match, Djokovic disclosed experiencing pain, which prompted his decision to skip the latter part of the Sunshine Double.
His choice to sit out the Miami Open stemmed from a commitment to safeguarding his long-term health, recognizing that sufficient recovery is crucial for his sustained performance at the elite level.
Djokovic’s absence from yet another significant tournament implies his injury recovery is still incomplete. This development casts doubt on his preparedness for the upcoming summer Grand Slams, specifically the French Open and Wimbledon. With these major championships looming, it’s possible Djokovic is strategically preserving his energy for the rigorous demands they entail.
The Monte Carlo Masters is slated for April 4-12, where Carlos Alcaraz is expected to defend his championship title.
In last year’s tournament, Djokovic was defeated in the Round of 32 by Chile’s Alejandro Tabilo. His non-participation this year is particularly notable, as he has consistently competed in the Monte Carlo event since 2011. While he has focused more on Grand Slams in recent seasons, Monte Carlo has typically remained a staple on his calendar. However, it appears this pattern is shifting, at least for the current year.