By Richard Pagliaro | Sunday, July 23, 2023
Novak Djokovic has stepped out of Toronto clearing a spot for Christopher Eubanks to gain direct entry.
Photo credit: Rob Newell/CameraSport
Novak Djokovic is taking a pass on Toronto.
The 23-time Grand Slam champion has withdrawn from the National Bank Open in Toronto citing fatigue after reaching the Wimbledon final and falling in five dramatic sets to world No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz.
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“I have always enjoyed my time in Canada but after speaking with my team, we believe this is the right decision to take,” Djokovic said. “I would like to thank Karl Hale, the Tournament Director, for understanding this decision. I really hope I can return to Canada and Toronto in the coming years to play in front of great fans there.”
Djokovic's departure means Wimbledon quarterfinalist Christopher Eubanks gains direct entry into the main draw.
“Of course, we’re disappointed that Novak won’t be playing at the National Bank Open this year,” said Karl Hale, Tournament Director, National Bank Open – Toronto. “He’s an incredible player and one we know our fans were eager to watch at Sobeys Stadium.
"He will be missed but we still have a long list of sensational players confirmed for this year’s event, including 41 of the top 42 players in the world.”
World No. 2 Djokovic is on the entry list for next month's Western & Southern Open and is scheduled to make his first appearance on U.S. soil since 2021 in Cincinnati.
The Western & Southern Open is set for August 12-20th.
Australian Open and Roland Garros champion Djokovic will join Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz in the men's field.
It will be Djokovic's first appearance in Cincinnati since 2019 when he reached the semifinals bowing to Daniil Medvedev 3-6, 6-3, 6-3.