Novak Djokovic has withdrawn from the ATP Finals due to a shoulder injury, shortly after securing his 101st career title, the 24-time Grand Slam champion confirmed on Saturday.
The 38-year-old will be replaced
in the Jimmy Connors Group by Lorenzo Musetti, who was defeated by Djokovic in the final of an ATP event in Athens.
“I was really looking forward to competing in Turin and giving my best but after today’s final in Athens, I’m sad to share that I need to withdraw due to an ongoing injury,” Djokovic said on social media.
“I’m truly sorry to the fans who were hoping to see me play — your support means so much. I wish all the players an amazing tournament, and I can’t wait to be back on the court with you all soon!”
Djokovic, a record seven-time ATP Finals winner, had been scheduled to face Carlos Alcaraz at the season-ending event, which begins on Sunday in Turin.
Djokovic had qualified long ago but kept everyone guessing until earlier this week about his participation in the prestigious tournament.
On Tuesday, the head of Italy’s tennis federation, Angelo Binaghi, said that Djokovic had confirmed his participation in the Finals.
Djokovic’s withdrawal is beneficial for Musetti, who had previously needed to beat the Serb in Athens to secure a spot at the Finals from Felix Auger-Aliassime.
Now, for the first time, the Finals will feature two Italians, with defending champion Jannik Sinner in the Bjorn Borg Group alongside Auger-Aliassime, Ben Shelton, and Alexander Zverev.
Musetti, making his tournament debut, is set to play Taylor Fritz in his opening match on Monday.
Djokovic also missed the ATP Finals last year due to injury. He won the tournament during his last appearance in 2023, defeating Sinner for the title.
Djoker Makes History With Oldest Record
On Saturday, Djokovic achieved a 4-6, 6-3, 7-5 victory over Musetti to claim his 101st career title.
The 38-year-old Djokovic also set a men’s record with his 72nd title on hard courts, surpassing Roger Federer’s record by one.
“An incredible battle,” Djokovic said after the match. “Three hours of a gruelling match, physically. … I’m just very proud of myself to get through this one.”
The last set featured five breaks before Djokovic secured the victory with a service winner. Musetti has now lost his last six tour-level finals.
(With inputs from Agencies)
