TURIN: In a surprising turn of events, world No. 1 Novak Djokovic has withdrawn from the 2025 ATP Finals due to a shoulder injury, just hours after capturing his 101st career title at the Hellenic Championship in Athens.
The seven-time ATP Finals champion defeated Lorenzo Musetti in a hard-fought final, prevailing 4-6, 6-3, 7-5 after nearly three hours of play. However, the victory came at a physical cost, forcing Djokovic to end his season earlier than expected.
With the Serbian legend stepping out, Musetti has been named as his replacement in Turin, where the elite year-end event begins on Sunday.
Djokovic confirmed the news via social media, expressing both disappointment and acceptance of his situation.
“I was really looking forward to competing in Turin and giving my best,” he wrote.
“But after today’s final in Athens, I’m sad to share that I need to withdraw due to an ongoing injury.”
The 38-year-old admitted that he had been dealing with the shoulder issue throughout the tournament in Athens and had delayed his decision in hopes of recovery.
“I wanted to see how the matches went and how I reacted. After yesterday’s match, I was hoping it wouldn’t flare up. But today, even before the final, it wasn’t great. I had to take strong medications just to play,” Djokovic revealed.
Ultimately, the 24-time Grand Slam champion said it was “impossible” to compete at the level required for the ATP Finals.
“I felt there was no chance for me to compete at the required level in Turin against the best eight players in the world,” he added.
Djokovic’s withdrawal marks a disappointing end to a season that still showcased his remarkable longevity and dominance, highlighted by multiple titles and his 101st career crown — a milestone few players in tennis history have reached.
