Djokovic delivers disappointing news ahead of the 2026 Australian Open

Novak Djokovic's quest for his 25th Grand Slam title is becoming increasingly challenging.

Novak Djokovic has decided to withdraw from the warm-up tournament for the 2026 Australian Open taking place next week in Adelaide.

The Serbian player made an official announcement on social media, disappointing many fans in Adelaide. Djokovic had won the Adelaide International in 2023 and considers it one of the tournaments that hold many fond memories for him.

"To all my fans in Adelaide, unfortunately, I am not yet fully fit to compete in the Adelaide International next week," Nole shared. "This is very disappointing for me because I have many wonderful memories here, especially winning the title in 2023".

According to the 38-year-old player, the decision to withdraw came after he and his team assessed his current physical condition. Rather than risking an early competition, Djokovic chose a safer route to ensure he is in the best shape for the Australian Open.

"At this time, I will focus entirely on preparing for the Australian Open. I look forward to arriving in Melbourne and meeting all the tennis fans in Australia.", Djokovic added.

Thus, Djokovic will enter the 2026 Australian Open without any warm-up matches. Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz will also skip ATP events before the first Grand Slam of the year, but both will participate in the Kooyong Classic 2026 exhibition event just days before the "Happy Slam."

This year's Australian Open will be held from January 18 to February 1 at Melbourne Park. Djokovic enters the tournament with a major goal: to win his 11th Australian Grand Slam title and reach the historic milestone of 25 Grand Slam titles, becoming the player with the most Grand Slam victories ever.

At Melbourne Park last year, Nole impressively defeated Carlos Alcaraz in the quarterfinals before having to retire in the semifinals against Alexander Zverev due to injury.