Novak Djokovic has withdrawn from next week’s Adelaide International but remains focused on contesting the Australian Open.
Djokovic, ranked number four in the world, wrote on Instagram he did not feel prepared to return to competition in Adelaide ahead of the year’s first major.
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“To all my fans in Adelaide, unfortunately I’m not quite physically ready to compete in the Adelaide International next week,” the former world number one wrote.
“It’s personally very disappointing to me, as I have such great memories of winning the title there [in 2023].
“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.”
ABC Sport will have live coverage of the Australian Open from January 18.
Djokovic, 38, has not played an official match in nearly two months.
He defeated Lorenzo Musetti in the Hellenic Championship final in Athens on November 8 and later pulled out of the ATP Finals for the second year in a row, citing a shoulder injury.
Djokovic has won 10 Australian Opens among his record 24 major singles championships.
He reached the semifinals in his past two visits to Melbourne Park.
The Australian Open main draw begins on January 18.
AP