In a move that has sent shockwaves through the tennis world, Novak Djokovic, the 24-time Grand Slam champion, has withdrawn from the 2025 Italian Open, a decision that former world No. 1 Jim Courier has called “strange and concerning.” The Serbian star, known for his relentless pursuit of excellence, has opted out of the Rome Masters 1000 event, a cornerstone of the clay-court season, for the first time since 2006. With the French Open just weeks away, starting May 25, Djokovic’s choice to skip a tournament critical for Roland Garros preparation has raised eyebrows and fueled speculation about his form, health, and mindset as he navigates the twilight of his storied career.
Djokovic’s 2025 season has been a turbulent ride. At 37, the Serbian has faced uncharacteristic setbacks, including early exits in Monte Carlo and Madrid, where he fell to Alejandro Tabilo and Matteo Arnaldi in straight sets. His Madrid loss, marked by 32 unforced errors, was particularly alarming, prompting Djokovic to admit, “It’s a completely different feeling from what I had in 20-plus years of professional tennis.” A third consecutive straight-sets defeat in Miami against Jakub Mensik in the final further underscored his struggles, leaving him with a 0-2 record on clay this year. “Has he listed a reason why? That’s troubling, that’s worrying for me as a Novak fan,” Courier said, his voice tinged with unease as he analyzed the withdrawal on Tennis Channel. The timing, announced well in advance of Rome’s start, struck Courier as particularly odd. “It’s a very strange thing to announce to pull out now,” he added, noting that Rome’s conditions—slow, heavy clay at sea level—mirror those of Roland Garros, making it the ideal proving ground.
The decision to forego Rome breaks an 18-year streak of participation for Djokovic, a six-time champion at the Foro Italico. His absence raises questions about his physical and mental state. A knee injury from 2024 and the grueling Olympic campaign that secured him a career Golden Slam have taken a toll, and some speculate he’s prioritizing recovery to peak in Paris. “If you’re gonna play one between Madrid and Rome, Rome would be the one you’d want to play to get ready for Roland Garros,” Courier emphasized, highlighting the gamble Djokovic is taking. By returning to Belgrade to train with his team, including new coach Andy Murray, Djokovic aims to refine his game in a controlled environment, focusing on reducing errors and sharpening his movement on clay. Yet, skipping competitive matches could leave him underprepared, especially with his current No. 5 ranking risking a tough draw in Paris.
Courier isn’t alone in his concern. Serena Williams’ former coach, Rennae Stubbs, recently questioned Djokovic’s drive for a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title, wondering if he might retire abruptly like Pete Sampras after achieving it. “Novak now is sitting in that same spot, and I think the only thing that drives him is maybe winning one more,” Stubbs said, suggesting the Rome withdrawal might reflect a shift in priorities. Social media buzzes with fan reactions, some praising Djokovic’s strategic rest, others fretting over his form. “He’s saving energy for Roland Garros,” one supporter posted, while another countered, “This feels like he’s lost his edge.” The tennis community is divided, with some speculating he might enter a smaller event, like Geneva, to gain match practice, as he did in 2024.
Djokovic’s history at Roland Garros—titles in 2016, 2021, and 2023—proves he thrives under pressure, but his current trajectory is uncharted territory. “I don’t know what to make of it, but I don’t like the way it feels in the gut,” Courier confessed, encapsulating the unease felt by many. The Serbian’s decision could be a masterstroke, allowing him to arrive in Paris fresh and focused, or a misstep that leaves him vulnerable against younger rivals like Carlos Alcaraz or Jannik Sinner. As he prepares in Belgrade, Djokovic remains defiant, stating, “Of course I’m always trying to be optimistic, and I know what I’m capable of.” The clay courts of Paris will soon reveal whether his bold gamble pays off or if, as Courier fears, it signals deeper concerns for the tennis legend’s future.
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