Djoko heads to AO cold after Adelaide pullout

Novak Djokovic will go into the Australian Open without a formal tune-up event after the Serb withdrew from the Adelaide International on Tuesday.

The South Australian ATP-WTA tournament is the final chance for a competitive outing before the Grand Slam begins on January 18.

The 38-year-old Djokovic will bid for an 11th title in Melbourne, which he last won in 2023 before twice reaching the semi-finals. 

“To all my fans in Adelaide, unfortunately I’m not quite physically ready to compete in the Adelaide International next week,” Djokovic posted on Instagram.

“It’s personally very disappointing to me, as I have such great memories of winning the title there two years ago. 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 arriving in Melbourne soon and seeing all the tennis fans in Australia.”

The winner of a record 24 Grand Slam singles titles won the South Australian event in 2007 and 2023.

His last match of 2025 was a title at the Athens 250 ATP tournament.

Main photo:-Novak Djokovic won 2023 Australian Open title – Roger Parker, ISF Ltd