Why did Novak Djokovic pull out of Cincinnati Open 2025?

Novak Djokovic has won just one title this year at the Geneva Open.

After his shocking early exit from Wimbledon 2025, fans were eagerly expecting 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic to return to action at the Cincinnati Open, an important warm-up event ahead of the US Open.

However, tournament officials have now confirmed that Djokovic has withdrawn from the event. This means the Serbian star has yet to return to action since his loss at the All England Club, having already skipped both the Washington Open and the Canadian Open.

Currently, Novak Djokovic appears to be enjoying his summer break, having been spotted vacationing in Croatia and Greece. Also, spending quality time with his family.

Reason behind Novak Djokovic’s absence in Cincinnati

Djokovic’s withdrawal from the 2025 Cincinnati Open marks yet another missed event in his summer schedule. Interestingly, the Serbian legend had also pulled out of the tournament in 2024, despite entering as the reigning champion. Djokovic is a three-time winner of the ATP Masters 1000 event in Cincinnati.

This decision means Djokovic will now miss all three major lead-up events—Washington Open, the Canadian Open, and now Cincinnati—to the US Open.

The most likely reason for Djokovic’s absence appears to be rest and recovery. He sustained a hip and groin injury during his Wimbledon 2025 semi-final clash against Jannik Sinner, which he lost in straight sets — 3-6, 3-6, 4-6.

Also Read: Jannik Sinner arrives in Cincinnati, hits practice courts ahead of title defence (watch Video)

So far, 2025 hasn’t been Djokovic’s dominant season. His only title came at the Geneva Open, which was nonetheless historic — marking his 100th career ATP title. After that, he has only competed in two Grand Slam tournaments this year: the French Open and Wimbledon.

Ironically, in both events, he was knocked out in the semifinals by World No. 1 Jannik Sinner.

The 24-time Grand Slam winner is now expected to return to action in New York, where he will aim to make history by claiming a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title. The US Open 2025 will begin from August 24.