Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports

Novak Djokovic withdraws from Western & Southern Open

By Zac Wassink | Last updated 8/9/21

The upcoming Western & Southern Open has lost another big name.

World No. 1 Novak Djokovic confirmed on Monday that he won't be playing in the tournament held in Cincinnati from Aug. 14-22 as he prepares to compete in the U.S. Open taking place in New York City from Aug. 30 through Sept. 12:

❤️ @CincyTennis pic.twitter.com/J1N19eKOp4
— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) August 9, 2021

Roger Federer withdrew from the Western & Southern Open last week.

Djokovic won the first three Grand Slam events of the season and was hoping to accomplish a "Golden Slam" that included winning Olympic gold. However, he failed to medal in Tokyo but can still complete the traditional Slam by hoisting the U.S. Open trophy next month.

Djokovic was set to enter next week as the reigning Western & Southern Open champion. He has 20 career Grand Slam titles on his resume and is tied with the previously mentioned Federer and Rafael Nadal for the men's all-time record in that category.

The main draw for the Western & Southern Open will be announced this coming Friday, and men's main-draw action begins on Sunday.

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