### Italian Open 2025: Djokovic's Withdrawal Raises Concerns Ahead of French Open The 2025 Italian Open, set to commence on May 7 in Rome, is facing significant changes as five players, including notable names, have withdrawn from the event. The most prominent withdrawal is that of 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic, who has struggled this clay season, losing his last three matches. This tournament is crucial for players as they prepare for the upcoming French Open, making Djokovic's absence particularly noteworthy. His withdrawal has sparked discussions about his current form and fitness as he heads into a major tournament without a win on clay this year. ### Breakdown of Key Events Surrounding Djokovic's Withdrawal 1. **Withdrawal Announcement**: - Djokovic's decision to withdraw from the Italian Open was officially announced on April 29, 2025, following a disappointing performance in recent tournaments, including losses at the Monte Carlo Masters and Madrid Open [https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6321192/2025/04/29/novak-djokovic-injury-italian-open-withdraws]. 2. **Impact on French Open Preparations**: - The Italian Open serves as a critical preparation ground for the French Open, and Djokovic's absence raises questions about his readiness for the Grand Slam event starting on May 25, 2025 [https://www.reuters.com/sports/tennis/djokovic-withdraws-rome-masters-2025-04-29]. 3. **Current Performance Issues**: - Djokovic is currently on a three-match losing streak, with a season record of 12-6, which has led to concerns about his mental and physical state as he approaches the French Open [https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/sports/novak-djokovic-withdraws-from-the-italian-open-after-losing-his-past-3-matches]. 4. **Expert Opinions**: - Former Roland Garros champion Jim Courier expressed that Djokovic's withdrawal is a worrying sign for fans, emphasizing the importance of his performance leading into the French Open [https://www.channelnewsasia.com/sport/djokovics-rome-pullout-worrying-sign-says-courier-5099121]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Djokovic's Recent Match History**: - **Losses**: - Madrid Open: Lost to Matteo Arnaldi (world No. 44) [https://www.outlookindia.com/sports/tennis/novak-djokovic-opts-out-of-italian-open-2025-check-full-details]. - Monte Carlo Masters: Early exit [https://www.firstpost.com/sports/tennis-news/novak-djokovic-decides-against-playing-in-italian-open-as-french-open-preparations-take-another-blow-13884253.html]. - **Overall Record**: 12 wins and 6 losses in the current season [https://www.latestly.com/agency-news/sports-news-novak-djokovic-withdraws-from-the-italian-open-after-losing-his-past-3-matches-6819035.html]. ### Conclusion: Implications of Djokovic's Withdrawal In summary, **Novak Djokovic's withdrawal from the Italian Open is a significant development that raises concerns about his form and fitness ahead of the French Open**. The following points encapsulate the situation: 1. **Djokovic's Performance**: His recent struggles on clay, including a three-match losing streak, have led to his decision to withdraw from the Italian Open [https://www.hindustantimes.com/sports/tennis/novak-djokovic-withdraws-from-the-italian-open-after-losing-his-past-3-matches-101745986742535.html]. 2. **Impact on French Open**: With no wins on clay this season, Djokovic's readiness for the French Open is in question [https://www.newsweek.com/novak-djokovic-concerningly-withdraws-tennis-tournament-ahead-french-open-2065810]. 3. **Expert Concerns**: Analysts and former players are voicing worries about his ability to compete effectively at the upcoming Grand Slam [https://www.reuters.com/sports/tennis/djokics-rome-pullout-worrying-sign-says-courier-2025-04-30]. As the tennis world watches closely, Djokovic's next steps will be critical in determining his future performance and legacy in the sport.