Djokovic Withdraws from Cincinnati, Heads to US Open Without Tune-Up Matches

Novak Djokovic Withdraws from Cincinnati Open, Will Head to US Open Without Match Practice.

Novak Djokovic, the 24-time Grand Slam champion, has pulled out of the 2025 Cincinnati Open citing “non-medical reasons”, tournament organisers confirmed on Monday, August 4. This is the second year in a row that the Serbian star has skipped the Masters 1000 event.

Djokovic, 38, has not played a competitive match since his straight-sets defeat to world No. 1 Jannik Sinner in the Wimbledon semifinals last month. That match followed a quarterfinal clash in which Djokovic took a heavy fall and required treatment for a leg injury—an incident that visibly hampered his movement.

His withdrawal from Cincinnati follows his earlier decision to sit out the Toronto Masters due to a groin issue. Despite the lack of match practice on hard courts, Djokovic remains focused on the upcoming US Open, which begins on August 24, where he will bid for a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title.

A three-time champion in Cincinnati, Djokovic will not lose any ranking points for skipping the event, as he did not play it in 2024 either. He is currently ranked No. 6 in the world.

The decision reflects Djokovic’s increasingly selective approach to scheduling in the twilight of his career, prioritising physical recovery and peaking at majors over regular ATP Tour appearances.

Tournament officials acknowledged and respected Djokovic’s decision, noting his veteran status and the importance of Grand Slam preparation.

Despite entering the US Open without any competitive tune-up, Djokovic is still regarded as one of the top contenders in New York, relying on his deep experience and championship pedigree to overcome any rust.