Novak Djokovic, the 24-time Grand Slam champion, has withdrawn from the upcoming Italian Open, casting a shadow over his preparations for the French Open. This decision comes after a series of disappointing performances on the clay court circuit.

Djokovic's Recent Struggles

Djokovic has been a dominant force in tennis for over a decade, but 2025 has proven to be a challenging year. The Serbian star has not secured a major title since his Olympic gold in Paris last year. His recent performances in Monte Carlo and Madrid have been lackluster, with early exits in both tournaments.

Impact on French Open Preparation

The Italian Open has been a crucial part of Djokovic's preparation for the French Open, where he has previously triumphed three times. His absence from Rome means he will have limited match practice before the second Grand Slam of the year begins on May 26.

Djokovic's Statement

On Instagram, Djokovic expressed his disappointment, saying, "Rome, I will miss you. I hope we meet next year." This withdrawal follows his early exit at the Madrid Open, where he hinted that it might be his last appearance at the tournament.

Looking Ahead

With the French Open just around the corner, Djokovic faces an uphill battle to regain his form. The tennis world will be watching closely to see if the Serbian can overcome his recent struggles and add to his impressive Grand Slam tally.

For more updates on Djokovic's journey and the latest in tennis, stay tuned.