Novak Djokovic has withdrawn from the Cincinnati Open, confirming that he will enter this year’s US Open without playing a single hard-court match in the lead-up. The 24-time Grand Slam winner, who last competed at Wimbledon, continues to keep fans guessing about his form and fitness ahead of the final Slam of the season.
No Medical Reason Stated for Withdrawal
The Cincinnati tournament confirmed Djokovic’s withdrawal on Monday, citing a “non-medical” reason. This comes just days after he also skipped the Toronto Masters, where a groin issue was the reported concern.
With no official explanation from the Serbian star or his team, questions remain over whether the absence is due to lingering fitness issues or strategic rest ahead of the US Open.
Wimbledon Exit Still Fresh
Djokovic hasn’t played a competitive match since July 11, when he lost in straight sets to Jannik Sinner in the Wimbledon semifinals. That defeat followed a tough quarterfinal in which Djokovic suffered a fall and later described it as “nasty” and “awkward.”
He required on-court treatment during the semifinal and appeared visibly limited in his movement throughout the match.
No Hard-Court Tune-Up for Flushing Meadows
With both the Toronto and Cincinnati events ruled out, Djokovic will now arrive at Flushing Meadows cold, without a single hard-court match under his belt since the spring.
The 38-year-old has only played two events since his French Open campaign in June, where he again lost to Sinner in the semifinals.
Still a Four-Time US Open Champion
Despite the concerns, Djokovic remains a major contender for the title. He is a four-time champion in New York, with his most recent triumph coming in 2023 — also his last Grand Slam title.
The US Open begins on August 24, and all eyes will be on how the Serbian legend performs without any match preparation in the lead-up.
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