In a statement shared across his social media channels, Novak Djokovic has officially announced his withdrawal from the 2024 ATP Finals, set to take place from November 10 to 17 at the Inalpi Arena in Turin, Italy. This news, which had been circulating for several weeks, was confirmed today by the Serbian tennis legend himself.
“It is a real honor to qualify for the Finals in Turin,” Djokovic wrote in his post. “I was looking forward to being there but due to an ongoing injury, I will not be able to play next week. I apologize to those who were planning to see me. I wish all the players a great tournament. See you soon.”
For many, this announcement may come as no surprise, given Djokovic’s injury struggles over the past few weeks. The Serbian star had already signaled that he might skip the prestigious year-end event, even if he qualified. His decision marks a significant moment in a year that has seen him battle physical setbacks, despite still remaining a dominant force in the sport.
**A Challenging Year, But Djokovic Almost Secured His Spot in Turin**
Despite not clinching any ATP titles this season or making a final appearance at Wimbledon, Djokovic had amassed enough points to almost guarantee his place in the ATP Finals. Heading into the final stretch of the season, he had accumulated a total of 3,910 points, placing him firmly in contention for the year-end tournament. The only real threat to his qualification came from a potential semifinal appearance by Casper Ruud in Metz, coupled with strong performances from Alex de Minaur and Andrey Rublev in their respective ATP 250 events.
However, even with these factors in play, Djokovic’s ranking would have almost certainly secured him a spot in the Finals, had he chosen to travel to Turin. Instead, the 37-year-old has confirmed that he will not be making the journey, opting to focus on his recovery and future goals.
**Djokovic’s Legacy at the ATP Finals**
The withdrawal from this year’s event leaves Djokovic on the sidelines of what has been one of the most successful tournaments of his career. Djokovic is the most decorated player in ATP Finals history, with an impressive seven titles to his name. His victories came in 2008, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2022, and 2023, making him the most dominant force in the competition’s history.
For Djokovic, the absence from Turin will mark a rare miss at a tournament where he has etched his name in history time and time again. Nevertheless, his eyes are now firmly set on the future, particularly on the 2025 season, where the Australian Open will undoubtedly be a major focus. With his 25th Grand Slam title on the horizon, Djokovic is determined to come back strong in 2025, with a well-rested and refreshed body and mind, as he chases the ultimate milestone in tennis history.
**A Strategic Decision: Echoes of Federer’s 2016 Comeback**
Djokovic’s decision to skip the ATP Finals mirrors a similar move made by Roger Federer in 2016. That year, Federer, who was nearing the age of 35, made the difficult decision to withdraw from the ATP Finals due to injury. His break allowed him to return to the sport in top form, and in an epic showdown in Melbourne in January 2017, Federer defeated Rafael Nadal in one of the greatest Australian Open finals ever, capturing his 18th Grand Slam title.
At the time, Federer’s decision to forgo the ATP Finals was seen as a calculated move to prioritize his health, and it paid off spectacularly in the new year. Djokovic, who will turn 37 in 2025, is hoping for a similar outcome. With the Australian Open being one of his most successful events—he has won it a record 10 times—he will no doubt be looking to start the season strong and claim his 25th Major title, which would further cement his place as one of the sport’s all-time greats.
**Skipping Paris and the Focus on Recovery**
In the lead-up to his withdrawal from the ATP Finals, Djokovic had already given fans a hint that he might skip the season-ending event. A few weeks ago, he also announced that he would not be participating in the Paris Rolex Masters, another key tournament in the lead-up to the ATP Finals. In a post on Instagram, Djokovic shared his disappointment over missing the Paris tournament, where he had enjoyed significant success in the past, including seven titles.
“Unfortunately, I will not play the Rolex Paris Masters this year. I apologize to everyone who was hoping to see me play there. I wish all the players, sponsors, organizers, and fans a great tournament. I have so many great memories after winning the title seven times and I hope to return next year,” he wrote, signaling his intention to rest and recover rather than push through with an injury.
**The End of an Era: The Big 3’s Future in Doubt**
Djokovic’s withdrawal from the ATP Finals also signals the close of an era for men’s tennis. This season marks the likely end of the era dominated by the so-called “Big 3”—Djokovic, Roger Federer, and Rafael Nadal. While Federer has already retired, Nadal will officially end his career at the conclusion of the 2024 season, leaving Djokovic as the final remaining member of tennis’ most successful trio.
With Nadal’s retirement, it is certain that the Big 3 will never face off in an official ATP match again. The most recent encounter between the trio occurred in an exhibition match at the “Six Kings” Slam, but this match does not count towards official ATP statistics. Reflecting on the head-to-heads between these legends, Djokovic holds the edge with 58 victories in their 148 matches. His record includes 31 wins over Nadal and 27 against Federer. Nadal has won 29 of their encounters, while Federer has a more modest 23 victories against Djokovic.
As the tennis world transitions into a new era, fans will undoubtedly reflect on the incredible rivalries between these three legends and the unprecedented records they have set. For Djokovic, the journey is far from over, and his quest for his 25th Grand Slam title will continue to be a focal point of his career as he navigates this new chapter.
**Looking Ahead: Djokovic’s Focus on 2025**
While his absence from the ATP Finals will be felt by fans around the world, Djokovic is focused on returning to peak form for the 2025 season. With the Australian Open looming on the horizon, the Serbian will take a strategic break, ensuring that he enters the new year with fresh energy and a clear goal: to make history by capturing his 25th Grand Slam title. His fans will eagerly await his return to action, knowing that when he does step back onto the court, Djokovic will be ready to chase yet another record-breaking achievement.