Novak Djokovic confirms his berth for another tournament amid tensions with Serbia

In a major development for the tennis world, Novak Djokovic has officially confirmed his participation in the upcoming ATP Finals in Turin, putting to rest weeks of speculation surrounding his availability. The announcement was made by Angelo Binaghi, President of the Italian Tennis Federation, who confirmed the Serbian’s presence in what will be his 17th appearance at the season-ending championship.

Novak Djokovic set for ATP Finals return

After being sidelined for three weeks following his semifinal loss to Valentin Vacherot at the Shanghai Masters 1000 on October 11, Djokovic had been notably absent from the Paris Masters, fueling rumors that he might skip Turin. However, Binaghi put those doubts to rest in a recent radio interview on Rai Gr Parlamento, saying,

“We have confirmation that Novak Djokovic will be in Turin.”

This confirmation ends all speculation that the world No. 4 might withdraw, as he did last year. The ATP Finals, known as the crown jewel of the tennis calendar, feature the top eight players of the season competing for one of the most prestigious titles outside the Grand Slams.

A milestone-filled season for Djokovic

Despite ongoing tensions with Serbian political circles after his move to Greece earlier this year, Novak Djokovic continues to let his tennis speak for itself. The 38-year-old’s 2025 season has been nothing short of remarkable — reaching the semifinals at all four Grand Slams and making the final at the Miami Open.

In May, the 24-time Grand Slam champion etched his name deeper into tennis history by lifting his 100th ATP title in Geneva, becoming only the third player in the Open era to achieve the milestone. Now, with his confirmed return to Turin, Djokovic aims to close out the year on a high note, eyeing yet another ATP Finals crown.

Final spots up for grabs

Djokovic’s inclusion leaves just one slot open for the Turin showdown, with Felix Auger-Aliassime and Lorenzo Musetti battling for the final berth. The two are separated by only 160 points in the annual rankings. Musetti, currently competing in Athens, could surpass the Canadian — who finished runner-up in Paris — if he clinches the Greek title this week.

With the field nearly set and Novak Djokovic’s participation guaranteed, all eyes will now turn to Turin, where the seven-time champion will look to reaffirm his dominance amid both on-court challenges and off-court scrutiny.