“Ongoing” shoulder issue takes Djokovic out of ATP Finals
But one question remained to be answered: would Djokovic compete at the ATP Finals, or would he give up his spot in Turin to Musetti? In the end, it was the 23-year-old Italian who—somewhat reluctantly—let the cat out of the bag.
When asked during his press conference whether Djokovic had told him anything about his participation at the season finale, Musetti first looked down before smiling and replying: “He announced to me that he was not going.”
Read more: Lorenzo Musetti to make career debut at ATP Finals in Turin after Novak Djokovic withdraws
Later, Djokovic explained: “Unfortunately, my shoulder injury is an ongoing issue. I wanted to see how it goes and that’s why I didn’t make a call earlier. After yesterday’s match I was hoping that it would be better but before today’s match it was not great. When the medication effect goes away, I am not expecting great things. I didn’t feel like going to Torino with the required level of tennis, playing against the best in the world. I would have played the first match tomorrow and there is not enough time. Unfortunately, I am physically not able to play.
“It hurts me, as it’s the ATP Finals and I didn’t play last year. I love playing indoors and the passionate fans there are amazing. So, I am really sorry. But Musetti is in, and that’s the positive he can take from today. Hopefully I will have another shot next year to play there.”
