Novak Djokovic has once again shown the world that age is just a number. After undergoing surgery, many might have doubted if the Serb could return to his dominant form. With his trademark relentless determination, he made his comeback count—finishing as the runner-up in one tournament and clinching the gold in another. His journey back to the top was nothing short of extraordinary. However, as tennis transitions into the American hard-court swing, Djokovic’s ranking is under threat. Despite his recent successes, the battle to stay at the pinnacle of the sport never truly ends.

As per the latest reports emerging from the US, the Serbian Maestro is all set to miss the upcoming Cincinnati Open, likely to focus more on the US Open. The news was confirmed by Tennis Commentator and Journalist Jose Morado, who took to his Twitter to share the information. 

Morgado shared, “Novak Djokovic, the defending champion, will miss the Cincinnati Masters. Will lose 1000 points and likely drop to 3rd in the world.” Remember, Nole defeated Carlos Alcaraz 5-7, 7-6, 7-6 last year to clinch the title. If he fails to appear in the tournament, he will lose the crucial 1000 points, thereby losing his position to Alcaraz, who is just around 300 points below him.

It will also be a sigh of relief for Jannik Sinner, who could have witnessed significant challenges in continuing his spot as the World No. 1 given the remarkable form of Nole. While the Serb has clinched a gold in Paris, it does not grant any impact on ranking. Meanwhile, the reason for his absence is likely the celebration which is due in Serbia.

Earlier, several claims suggested that Nole might take the decision in a couple of days owing to scheduling conflicts between the tournament and the Olympic celebration, which is due in his country. Serbia is excited for Djokovic’s victory as they find several ways to honor him. They announced a new museum dedicated to Djokovic to honor his achievements, which will be constructed soon. Besides, participating in back-to-back events would be an equally demanding task for the Serb that might cause eventual fatigue ahead of the US Open.

The 37-year-old appeared in the French Open when he suffered a torn medial meniscus in his right knee. Despite undergoing surgery, Nole did not fail to appear for the Wimbledon and reached the final. He also participated in the Paris Olympics, and despite the transitioning challenges, he ultimately clinched the shiny gold. As the tennis legend looks forward to winning his 25th slam, getting adequate rest is important. And for Djokovic, it is more crucial provided his US Open dream.

What did Djokovic say about his US Open desire?

Djokovic has reached close to his 25th Grand Slam title many times but has failed to convert the streak into a grand victory. The Australian Open earlier this year and the Wimbledon final served as a great stage for him to take his next slam. However, the Serbinator now prepares to enter the US Open with his plans clear and determination intact.

After his defeat in SW19, Nole revealed his desire for the upcoming tournaments where he wished to remain focused. “Well, the Olympic Games and US Open are the two big goals for the rest of the year for me really,” Djokovic said. “I’m hoping I can be at my best [for] those two tournaments. That’s all I can say right now.”

As the Serbian Maestro enters the slam riding on the motivation from his recent success, it would be interesting to see if he can fulfill his dream in the US Open. While it only remains to be seen if he will actually win big at Flushing Meadows, what is certain is palpable excitement from fans and the tennis community alike.