Novak Djokovic has made a shocking decision just moments after clinching victory over Lorenzo Musetti in the Athens Open final. The seven-time ATP Finals champion has officially withdrawn from the upcoming ATP Finals in Turin, marking the second consecutive year he will skip the elite season-ending event.
Djokovic withdraws from ATP Finals after Athens triumph
Djokovic, 38, confirmed his withdrawal following his hard-fought 4-6, 6-3, 7-5 win against Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti in the Athens final. The three-hour battle earned the Serbian legend his 101st career ATP title, but rather than continuing to Turin, he opted to rest and recover after another demanding season.
Despite qualifying for the ATP Finals for a record-equalling 18th time, the 24-time Grand Slam champion made it clear that his focus has shifted toward longevity and recovery rather than adding another trophy to his cabinet. Novak Djokovic’s last appearance at the ATP Finals came in 2023, where he defeated Jannik Sinner to capture the title.
The decision behind Novak Djokovic’s withdrawal
The Belgrade native’s decision follows a season where he consistently battled physical fatigue. Djokovic admitted earlier in the year that at this stage of his career, he no longer follows a rigid schedule, choosing tournaments based on his physical readiness.
At 38, Djokovic remains among the world’s top performers, having secured two ATP 250 titles in 2025, reached all four Grand Slam semi-finals, and made deep runs in the Miami and Shanghai Masters. Still, the physical toll of maintaining that level has influenced his choice to skip another grueling week of competition.
Novak Djokovic intends to take time off the court to recover fully before preparing for the 2026 season, emphasizing that he wants to enter tournaments only when he feels capable of performing at his peak.
Lorenzo Musetti misses his chance despite strong showing
Musetti pushed Djokovic to his limits in Athens, delivering a spirited performance in hopes of earning a late ATP Finals spot. Despite his efforts, Musetti fell short in the deciding set, losing 4-6, 6-3, 7-5 after three hours of intense play.
With Djokovic stepping aside, Lorenzo Musetti now steps into the vacant spot at the ATP Finals in Turin, set to open his campaign against Taylor Fritz on Monday.
Novak Djokovic’s decision underscores a shifting phase in his legendary career—one where strategic rest takes precedence over constant competition, even as he remains one of tennis’ most formidable forces.