Djokovic last played at the BNP Paribas Open in March, after which he missed the Miami Open citing the injury. He is a three-time Madrid Open champion, having last won the tournament in 2019.

The Mutua Madrid Open posted on X, “Novak Djokovic, a three-time #MMOPEN champion, will not be able to participate in this year’s tournament. We hope to see you back here as soon as possible so we can enjoy your tennis as we have done so many times in the Caja Magica.” The message was also shared in Spanish.

Djokovic himself commented on X, “Madrid, unfortunately, I won’t be able to compete @MutuaMadridOpen this year. I’m continuing my recovery in order to be back soon. Hasta pronto!”

The 38-year-old Serb was defeated by Carlos Alcaraz in the Australian Open final in February, and lost to Jack Draper in the fourth round at the BNP Paribas Open. Draper defeated Djokovic 4-6, 6-4, 7-6(5) in a closely contested Round of 16 match at Indian Wells Tennis Garden, California.

Djokovic, who holds a record 40 Masters 1000 titles, is expected to participate at the Internazionali BNL d’Italia in Rome from May 6 to 17.