Novak Djokovic Withdraws From Cincinnati, Will Focus On Winning Calendar Slam At US Open

Following a tough exit at the Olympics over a week ago, Novak Djokovic has decided to take an extra few weeks of rest before his assault on the record books resumes in New York City at the US Open.

The Serb announced today that he will not be playing next week’s Cincinnati Masters events.

“Dear fans, I wanted to share with you that I am taking a bit longer to recover and recuperate after quite a taxing journey from Australia to Tokyo. Sadly, that means I won’t be ready to compete in Cincinnati this year so I’ll turn my focus and attention to US Open and spend some more time with family. See you in New York soon!”

Djokovic mentioned a left shoulder issue after losing in the bronze match at the Olympics. But he didn’t specifically refer to the injury in the statement today, so clearly that issue is well behind him.

This will be just the second time in Djokovic’s career that he will miss both Canada in Cincinnati. He also missed both in 2017 when he was recovering from an elbow issue.

In New York, Djokovic will be bidding to become the first man since Rod Laver in 1969 to complete the Calendar Slam. This year, the Serb has won the first three Slams — the first to do that since Laver in 1969.

❤️ @CincyTennis pic.twitter.com/J1N19eKOp4

— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) August 9, 2021