'Not physically ready': Novak Djokovic pulls out of Adelaide as Australian Open bid hits early bump
Updated . First published at
Novak Djokovic has withdrawn from his planned Australian Open tune-up at the Adelaide International, admitting he is "not quite physically ready to compete".
The 38-year-old Djokovic was slated to headline next week's ATP 250 event in the South Australian capital as he prepares for another historic bid to claim an outright record 25th grand slam singles title.
Djokovic has won 10 of his 24 majors at the Australian Open but was knocked out in the semi-finals in his past two appearances.
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Novak Djokovic during the Wimbledon men's singles final against Carlos Alcaraz. Rob Newell - CameraSport via Getty Images
After over two decades on the professional tour, the current world No.4 now operates on a reduced calendar, selectively choosing his appearances to ensure he reaches the four grand slams at peak fitness.
Djokovic remains abroad but is slated to travel directly to Melbourne later this week — a rare late arrival for him.
The Aussie tennis summer kicks off with the 2026 United Cup from Friday, January 2. Watch it live and free on Nine and 9Now.
In an Instagram story posted on Tuesday morning (AEDT), Djokovic expressed his disappointment over withdrawing from the Adelaide International.
Novak Djokovic announces his withdrawal from the Adelaide International on Instagram. @djokernole via Instagram
"To all my fans in Adelaide, unfortunately I'm not quite physically ready to compete in the Adelaide International next week," he wrote.
"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."
Despite a two-year title drought at the majors, Djokovic has proved he is still a force at the highest level, being one of only two men to reach all four grand slam semi-finals last year. The other player was World No.2 Jannik Sinner.
Djokovic was forced to retire with injury at the Australian Open before falling to Sinner at Roland-Garros and Wimbledon. He was also defeated by Carlos Alcaraz at the US Open.
The Serbian added two ATP titles to his trophy cabinet in 2025, reaching the historic milestone of 100 career titles in Geneva before moving his overall tally to 101.
On Monday, Djokovic announced his complete departure from the Professional Tennis Players Association, citing "ongoing concerns regarding transparency and governance".
The 2026 Australian Open main draw kicks off on Sunday, January 18.
