Novak Djokovic admits to ‘physical problems’ ahead of the Madrid Open

Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images Novak Djokovic still hasn’t stepped onto a clay court this season, and it’s not clear when that might change. Clay is by far the most demanding surface on the tour, asking players for more patience and physical endurance than anything else. In his younger days, Djokovic would have welcomed the challenge.

But now, at 39, it’s understandable that he might not be quite so eager. Even so, we still expect to see him on clay at some point soon. If nothing else, he’ll need some match fitness ahead of Roland Garros.

The Madrid Open had been seen as a likely spot for his return, but recent comments have put that in doubt. Djokovic’s fitness concerns cast doubt on clay court return Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images Djokovic had already skipped Monte Carlo, one of the biggest events on the clay calendar, signalling a new approach to his schedule. It’s clear now that he is fully committed to a reduced workload, with no tournament guaranteed anymore.

Now focused on finding a balance between tennis and life away from it, Djokovic has been seen in various places throughout 2026. His most recent appearance was in Madrid. The Serbian made time for a brief interview during his visit, where he was asked about his current fitness status and said: The chances of him playing there seem even slimmer now.