Novak Djokovic Withdraws from Adelaide – Tennis Now

By Richard Pagliaro | Monday, January 5, 2026
Photo credit: Paul Kane/Getty

Novak Djokovic’s road to the Australian Open will bypass Adelaide.

Grand Slam king Djokovic announced today he has withdrawn from next week’s Adelaide International because he’s not quite physically ready to compete.

“It’s personally very disappointing to me as I have such great memories of winning the title there two years ago,” Djokovic posted on Instagram. “I was really excited about returning as it truly felt like playing at home.

“My focus is now on my preparation for the Australian Open and I look forward to arrive in Melbourne soon and seeing all the tennis fans in Australia.”

The Australian Open main draw is set for January 18-February 1.

Djokovic has won a record 10 Australian Open championships with his most recent Melbourne crown coming in 2023 when he defeated Stefanos Tsitsipas in the final.