Novak Djokovic Faces Health Concerns Ahead of Australian Open 2026

As the Australian Open 2026 approaches, Novak Djokovic's health has become a focal point following his withdrawal from the Adelaide International. The Serbian tennis star, who has a remarkable history at Melbourne Park, is facing fresh injury concerns, particularly a neck issue that forced him to cut practice short. With only days left until the tournament begins, questions arise about his fitness and whether he will be ready to compete against Pedro Martinez in the first round. Djokovic's recent struggles with injuries and competition from rising stars like Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz add to the uncertainty surrounding his performance at this prestigious event.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 15, 2026, 12:28 IST

Djokovic's Preparation for Australian Open 2026

As the Australian Open 2026 approaches, former World No. 1 Novak Djokovic has raised new health concerns during his practice sessions at Melbourne Park on January 14. The tournament is set to commence on January 18 and will run until February 1.

Djokovic, a prominent contender at the Australian Open, has an impressive history at this venue, having secured 10 titles and maintaining a remarkable 91% win rate at this hard-court Grand Slam. Recently, he withdrew from the Adelaide International, citing that he was 'not quite physically ready' for competition.

Concerns Over Djokovic's Fitness

His withdrawal from the Adelaide International has intensified worries about his fitness as he heads into the season's first Grand Slam. The 38-year-old hasn't participated in any competitive matches since his last appearance in the final of the Hellenic Championship in Greece in November 2025, making his physical condition a focal point ahead of the Australian Open.

Djokovic arrived in Melbourne on January 13 and immediately began training at the Rod Laver Arena, aiming for an unprecedented 11th Australian Open title and a record 25th Grand Slam victory.

On January 14, he engaged in two practice sessions: one with Daniil Medvedev and another with Jiri Lehecka. While he reportedly felt fine during the first session, he exhibited signs of injury during the second, leading him to end the practice prematurely.

Neck Injury Raises Alarm

According to reports from Tennis Channel, Djokovic had to cut his second practice session short after just 12 minutes due to a neck issue, raising alarms about his health ahead of the Australian Open. His team has yet to clarify the severity of the injury. During the evening session, he was seen receiving treatment on his neck from his physiotherapist, who massaged the area for several minutes before concluding the session early.

It remains unclear whether Djokovic is experiencing typical neck pain or something more severe, such as spinal issues, which could significantly impact his performance.

Upcoming Exhibition Match and Tournament Participation

Djokovic's injury concerns come just before an exhibition match against Francis Tiafoe scheduled for January 15. His participation in this match is uncertain and will depend on how well he recovers from his neck issue.

In the first round of the Australian Open 2026, Djokovic is set to face Spain's Pedro Martinez on January 18. With only three days until the tournament begins, all eyes are on his fitness updates and whether he will be ready for his opening match.

Having not played competitively since November 2025 and withdrawing from the Adelaide International due to fitness concerns, uncertainty looms over his readiness for the Australian Open. Last season, Djokovic faced physical challenges, including retiring from the semifinals and experiencing fitness-related interruptions in other matches.

Challenges Ahead for Djokovic

Given his age and recent injury setbacks, Djokovic's fitness has become a significant topic of discussion as the Australian Open 2026 approaches. Although he has been declared fit to compete, he faces a tough challenge in reclaiming the title, especially with formidable opponents like Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz expected to pose significant threats in the tournament.

Both Sinner and Alcaraz prevented Djokovic from winning any Grand Slam titles last season, underscoring the intense competition he will encounter as he aims to extend his record at Melbourne Park.