Novak Djokovic has 18 Grand Slam titles following his victory at the Australian Open in February. Xinhua

Novak Djokovic out of Miami Open due to COVID-19 restrictions

By Zac Wassink | Last updated 3/19/21

Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic are now among the big names that won't be participating in the Miami Open set to begin Monday and run through April 4 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens.

Djokovic announced Friday afternoon that he's skipping the tournament due to restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic:

Dear fans, I’m very sorry to announce that this year I won’t travel to Miami to compete. I decided to use this precious time at home to stay with my family. With all restrictions, I need to find balance in my time on tour and at home. I look forward to coming back next year!
— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) March 19, 2021

Coming off the multiple knee operations he underwent in 2020, Federer is still working his way back to form. Nadal, meanwhile, withdrew on Tuesday because of ongoing back issues. Former world No. 1 Andy Murray has received a wild-card entry into the Miami Open.

"This has been a difficult year for everyone, but especially for players with families," Miami Open tournament director and retired professional tennis player James Blake said in a statement shared by the Associated Press (h/t ESPN).

Earlier this month, Djokovic broke Federer's record for most career weeks at No. 1 and is now in his 312th career week atop the rankings. Djokovic has 18 Grand Slam titles following his victory at the Australian Open in February.

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