Novak Djokovic has indicated a plan to participate in fewer ATP 1000 events as he approaches the twilight of his career, yet he seems poised for an active commencement of the European clay court circuit.
Since his Australian Open semi-final loss to Jannik Sinner, the world’s top-ranked player has only competed in two matches. His defeat by world No 123 Luca Nardi in the Indian Wells Masters’ third round stands as one of his career’s most startling setbacks.
This outcome hinted at a need for more competitive play following a significant hiatus post his Australian Open title loss in Melbourne. Djokovic later announced a scaled-back tennis agenda, withdrawing from the Miami Open shortly thereafter.
“At this stage of my career, I’m balancing my private and professional schedule. I’m sorry that I won’t experience some of the best and most passionate fans in the world,” Djokovic remarked upon confirming his absence from Miami.
The explanation he provided fueled speculation that he might be losing the intense drive that fueled his historical success.
Djokovic now seems set to gear up for the French Open, choosing to enter the season’s first ATP 1000 clay court competition in Monte Carlo the following month.
As a Monte Carlo resident and a two-time victor of this event, Djokovic is familiar with the tournament’s stunning French Riviera backdrop.
Despite claiming victory in Monte Carlo twice, Djokovic’s performance there has been modest by his high standards, failing to advance beyond the quarter-finals since his last victory in 2015.
Based on recent patterns, Djokovic may skip the Madrid Masters but is expected to partake in the Rome Masters, marking his last competition before defending his French Open title.
Rafael Nadal, aiming for a comeback from a back injury that sidelined him from Indian Wells and Miami, is also listed to compete in Monte Carlo.
