Susan Mullane-Imagn Images

Novak Djokovic’s Brother Drops Hint on Comeback After Paris Withdrawal

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Devang Chauhan | Last updated Oct 25, 2025 3:35 PM ET

Former World No.1 Novak Djokovic's brother Djordje Djokovic revealed that the Serbian was working hard on his fitness after announcing his withdrawal from the ATP Paris Masters earlier this week. The 38-year-old withdrew from the final ATP Masters 1000 of the season after playing in hot and humid conditions in Shanghai and Saudi Arabia this month, where he experienced injury concerns.

The 24-time Grand Slam champion has been selective with his choices of tournaments over the past couple of years in his bid to perform well at the highest level.

Despite achieving four semi-finals in the Grand Slams this year and claiming a title in Geneva, Djokovic has been unable to solve the Carlos Alcaraz-Jannik Sinner puzzle in the 2025 season, coming out second-best in most of their matchups.

In the pre-tournament press conference of the Belgrade Open, Djokovic's brother mentioned that he believed that the Serb was a "mastermind" when it came to preparing and recovery, expressing his confidence regarding his participation, saying:

“He withdrew from Paris, but he is working hard to recover. He has specific problems that worsened in Shanghai. He feels good now; he is doing everything in his power to be in the best possible condition and play in Athens. He has said how important it is for him to play in this competition, in front of the Greek fans. He is a mastermind when it comes to preparation and recovery, and that is why he is the best."

The event usually takes place in Djokovic's hometown in Belgrade, but had to be shifted to Athens following difficulties with the logistics.

Novak Djokovic of Serbia says goodbye to the spectators and the clay after losing his match against Jannik Sinner of Italy at Roland Garros Stadium.Susan Mullane-Imagn Images

Paris Masters Director Expresses Feelings on Novak Djokovic's Withdrawal

Paris Masters Tournament Director Cédric Pioline was hopeful of seeing Novak Djokovic play at the event in the future following his withdrawal in the 2025 season.

In the press conference ahead of the event in Bercy, Pioline spoke about the Serb's legacy with the event and the sport, saying:

"I hope we will see him again in our city. In any case, we are talking about a great champion who holds the record of wins in this tournament with seven triumphs. Time passes for him too, and 38 years is a long time, but he is still competitive at the highest level and has reached the semifinals in all the Majors this year."

Djokovic has already qualified for the Nitto ATP Finals in Turin next month despite playing limited events in the 2025 season. However, there is a cloud over his participation in Italy, owing to his injury concerns from the last couple of weeks.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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