Novak Djokovic Withdraws From ATP Finals After Historic Win in Athens

Novak Djokovic Withdraws From ATP Finals After Historic Win in Athens

Athens, Greece – November 9, 2025:

Tennis legend Novak Djokovic has announced his withdrawal from the upcoming ATP Finals in Turin, just a day after capturing the Hellenic Championship title in Athens.

The world No. 1 defeated Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti in a grueling 4-6, 6-3, 7-5 battle that lasted nearly three hours. With the victory, Djokovic not only claimed his 101st career title but also set a new hard-court record, surpassing Roger Federer with 72 titles on the surface.

Shoulder Injury Forces Djokovic Out of Turin

Following his win, Djokovic revealed that a shoulder injury—which had troubled him throughout the Athens tournament—would prevent him from competing in the season-ending event featuring the world’s top eight male players.

> “I was really looking forward to competing in Turin and giving my best,” Djokovic shared on social media.

“But after today’s final in Athens, I’m sad to announce that I have to withdraw due to an ongoing injury.”

This marks the second consecutive year the Serbian superstar has been forced to skip the ATP Finals due to injury.

Musetti Replaces Djokovic in ATP Finals Line-Up

Djokovic’s withdrawal opens the door for Lorenzo Musetti, who will now take his place in Turin. Although his loss initially handed the final qualifying spot to Felix Auger-Aliassime, Musetti’s inclusion was confirmed following Djokovic’s announcement.

Speaking to reporters, Djokovic admitted he had delayed his decision about Turin until after the Athens final:

> “I wanted to see how my body reacts after each match,” he said. “After Friday’s semi-final, I hoped it would not flare up again, but before the final it was already bad. I had to take strong medications just to finish the match.”

> “I knew there was no realistic chance I could play a full tournament at the level required to face the best players in the world,” he added.

A Record-Breaking Performance in Athens

Djokovic’s Athens triumph adds yet another milestone to his illustrious career. Only Roger Federer (103) and Jimmy Connors (109) have won more ATP titles than Djokovic’s 101.

Reflecting on his hard-fought victory, Djokovic said:

> “It was an incredible battle — three hours of intense, physical tennis. I’m proud of how I managed to push through.”

The final’s deciding set featured five service breaks before Djokovic sealed the win with a powerful ace. For Musetti, it marked his sixth consecutive loss in an ATP Tour final.