Announced on Monday, Tennis Canada confirmed that Novak Djokovic, the world’s number two, will not be participating in the upcoming ATP Canadian Open event in Montreal.
The Serbian tennis star, a 24-time Grand Slam champion, advanced to the third round of the Paris Olympics after defeating Spain’s Rafael Nadal.
Despite boasting 98 ATP titles in his career, the 37-year-old Djokovic has opted out of the hardcourt tournament, which serves as a warm-up for the US Open commencing on August 26.
Tournament director Valerie Tetreault expressed understanding of Djokovic’s decision, stating, “While we’re disappointed that Novak will be unable to take part in this year’s tournament, we understand his decision and wish him the best at the Olympics and the remainder of his season.”
Djokovic’s withdrawal paves the way for Roman Safiullin, a 26-year-old Russian ranked 66th globally, to secure a place in the main draw.
The tournament schedule in Montreal has been adjusted from the typical Monday-Sunday format due to the Olympics. The main draw action is set to kick off on Tuesday, August 6, with the competition culminating on Monday, August 12.
AFP