NOVAK Djokovic has withdrawn from next week’s Adelaide International, opting to focus on his preparations for the Australian Open rather than compete in the final warm-up event before the season’s first Grand Slam.

The 38-year-old Serbian made the announcement via social media, confirming that he does not feel physically ready to take the court in Adelaide. The former world number one won the tournament in 2023 and had been scheduled to use it as part of his build-up to Melbourne Park.

Not quite physically ready

“To all my fans in Adelaide, unfortunately I'm not quite physically ready to compete in the Adelaide International next week,” Djokovic said.

“It’s personally very disappointing to me, as I have such great memories of winning the title there.

“My focus is now on my preparation for the Australian Open and I look forward to arriving in Melbourne soon and seeing all the tennis fans in Australia.”

In a separate post on Instagram, Djokovic also wrote: “I was really excited about returning as it truly felt like playing at home.”

The Adelaide International has traditionally served as a key warm-up for players targeting a deep run at the Australian Open, which begins later this month.

Focus turns fully to Melbourne Park

Djokovic will be bidding for an 11th Australian Open title and a record 25th Grand Slam singles crown when the tournament gets under way. The Australian Open runs from Sunday, January 18 to Sunday, February 1.

Although he has won 10 of his 24 major titles in Melbourne, Djokovic has fallen short of the final in his past two appearances at the tournament, losing in the semi-finals on both occasions.

He was also forced to retire with injury from his last-four meeting against Alexander Zverev at Melbourne Park last January.

Recent form and scheduling approach

Djokovic has scaled down his playing schedule in recent years in an effort to arrive fresher at the Grand Slam tournaments.

Despite not winning a major since the 2023 US Open, he was one of the most consistent performers at the Slams last year. Djokovic reached the semi-finals of all four majors, losing to Jannik Sinner at both the French Open and Wimbledon, and to Carlos Alcaraz at the US Open.

He also claimed two ATP Tour titles during the season, taking his career tally to 101.

Djokovic is currently ranked world number four and is expected to arrive in Melbourne in the coming days as he completes his preparations for the Australian Open.