Novak Djokovic Injury Doubts Grow Ahead of Madrid Open Return

Novak Djokovic’s clay season build-up has hit another snag, with fresh concern around his fitness before the Spanish swing. The former world number one has not played since Indian Wells, where he fell to Jack Draper in the fourth round.

Since then, the 24-time Grand Slam champion has stepped away from two major events. He pulled out of Miami and later skipped Monte Carlo, both key stops before Roland Garros. That has placed even more focus on his condition heading into Madrid Open 2026.

Djokovic Still Unsure on Return

Djokovic was recently seen in Spain, where he has started light training. Still, he did not sound fully certain when asked about playing next week.

Speaking during a basketball event in Madrid, he admitted the body has not been cooperating lately. The shoulder problem has limited his schedule and slowed his usual rhythm.

That matters because Novak Djokovic injury updates are now shaping the early clay-court story. Fans expected him back sooner. Instead, questions keep building.

The Madrid Open draw will be held on Monday, while matches begin on April 22. Time is short. If he misses the tournament, his next likely target becomes Rome or direct preparation for Paris.

Even with the setbacks, Djokovic’s bigger aim remains clear. He wants another run at the French Open and a historic 25th major crown.

For now, though, the spotlight stays on recovery. Madrid Open 2026 could mark his return, but nothing appears guaranteed.

The tennis world has seen this before. Doubt around him, then a response on court. Yet this time feels different because Novak Djokovic injury concerns have stretched for weeks, not days.

If he is fit, he remains dangerous on any surface. If not, the clay season may begin without one of its biggest names.