Novak Djokovic withdraws from 2026 Adelaide International

Monday, 05 January 2026 at 18:18

Updated at Monday, 05 January 2026 at 19:20

byErik Virostko

Novak Djokovic will begin his 2026 season later than expected after withdrawing from the Adelaide International.

The last time Djokovic stood on the tennis court, he actually lifted a trophy above his head. It was at the 2025 Athens Open, where he beat Lorenzo Musetti to win the title. That win meant Musetti didn't qualify for the ATP Finals.

However, Djokovic then withdrew from the ATP Finals, granting the Italian a spot. The Serbian player stated he wanted to test out his level in Athens, but he didn't feel competitive enough to play at the ATP Finals, that's why he withdrew from the tournament.

Ahead of the new season, nothing suggested that Djokovic's health struggles could also carry into 2026. He planned to start his season at the Adelaide International, running from January 12th to 17th. It would be a bit uncharacteristic for him, as the tournament is held only one week before the start of the Australian Open.

But it's now clear that Djokovic will travel directly to Melbourne and begin his season at the Australian Open, where he will be among the top four seeds. He announced his Adelaide International withdrawal one week before the start of the tournament, suggesting it might be a more serious issue.

"To all my fans in Adelaide. Unfortunately, I'm not quite physically ready to compete in the Adelaide International next week. It's personally very disappointing to me as I have such great memories of winning the title there two years ago."

"I was really excited about returning, as it truly felt like playing at home. 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."

Novak Djokovic will have to fight not only his opponents in 2026

Djokovic's 2026 season might prove to be a real challenge. Former ATP world No. 1, Yevgeny Kafelnikov, recently stated it will be impossible for Djokovic to win another Grand Slam title.

The Serbian player is now 38 and will turn 39 during the season. There isn't anyone older than him ranked inside the Top 50 on the ATP Tour, showing just how rare it is for a player to compete at such a high level at 38.

The fact that he had to withdraw from the first tournament of the season just proves that Djokovic might need to fight not only his opponents but also his body in the upcoming season.

Still, he will be one of the favorites to win the upcoming Australian Open. He won the tournament a total of 10 times, more than anyone else in history. Now, he will try to add his 11th trophy in Melbourne.