Novak Djokovic has withdrawn from the Cincinnati Open, just days after securing his first Olympic gold medal in Paris. The 37-year-old Serbian tennis star, who won the Cincinnati title last year, announced his decision on Thursday. The tournament, a hard-court event that serves as a warm-up for the US Open, begins next week.
Djokovic, the defending US Open champion, is expected to compete in the year’s final Grand Slam tournament, which kicks off in New York on August 26th. He is aiming to defend his title and win his 25th career major championship.
The Cincinnati Open tournament director, Bob Moran, acknowledged the quick turnaround from the Olympics, stating, “We certainly understand that it is a quick turnaround from his Olympic triumph to come to Cincinnati. His title run here last year was so memorable. We are eager to see him on court again soon.”
Djokovic’s withdrawal opens up a spot in the Cincinnati field for French player Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard. Djokovic’s decision comes after his thrilling victory over Carlos Alcaraz in the men’s singles final at the Paris Games on Sunday. He defeated the young Spaniard 7-6 (3), 7-6 (2) to secure the Olympic gold.
With Djokovic focusing on the US Open, the Cincinnati Open will miss the presence of the formidable Serbian. However, the tournament is set to be a thrilling event, with top players looking to capitalize on Djokovic’s absence and make their mark on the hard courts.
