Novak Djokovic withdrew from the 2024 Miami Open, and after a few days of uncertainty, he explained his decision.
The Sunshine Double didn't start well for the 24-time major winner, as he was surprisingly beaten by Luca Nardi already in his second match of the season's first ATP Masters 1000 tournament.
Many expected that his focus would then shift to the Miami Open, the second tournament of the Sunshine Double, however, the Serbian then announced his surprising withdrawal from the tournament.
First, it wasn't clear why the 36-year-old made the decision, and now he has shed light on what made him withdraw from the tournament. Djokovic explained that at this stage of his tennis career, he's trying to balance it with his private life.
"Hi Miami! Unfortunately I won’t be playing the Miami Open this year. At this stage of my career, I’m balancing my private and professional schedule."
It's not clear what Djokovic was exactly trying to say, but he likely immediately returned back to Serbia to spend some time with his family.
On top of that, he's ensured to stay the world no. 1 after the Miami Open regardless of how his opponents play, so in fact, he didn't have a lot to lose by his withdrawal, except for some valuable playing time.
Now, his focus will shift to the clay courts, as he will attempt not only to win the Roland Garros but also to win a medal for Serbia on the very same courts the French Open is played on.
In his statement, the Serbian player also addressed fans in Miami, saying he was looking forward to meeting them in the future.
"I’m sorry that I won’t experience some of the best and most passionate fans in the world. I’m looking forward to competing in Miami in the future!"
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