HERE WE GO ‘I’m Not Playing, That Won’t Change’: Djokovic Plans To Skip Home Tournament In Belgrade due to ….

Novak Djokovic isn’t playing as many events as he did in the past, and this includes the home event in Belgrade, where he confirmed he won’t play this year either.

Djokovic has never been the type of player to compete in every event on the calendar. He was one of the earliest superstars to embrace a reduced schedule, emphasizing how important that is for longevity.

Given his performance since turning 30, it seems he was right, and more players are following his example. Even so, he has always made an effort to play certain events, especially those held at home, since Serbia hasn’t always had its own tournament.

There will be one this year in Belgrade, but unlike in previous years, Djokovic won’t be making an appearance at the ATP 250 tournament in November when the event takes place.

He is, however, playing this week during the Davis Cup, so in a sense, he is still taking the opportunity to compete at home.

“Weeks like these represent another motivation, they inspire me to keep going, they awake those butterflies in my belly. I thought that I would never have to seek motivation anywhere, it all used to come naturally – automatically – but that has not been the case in the last few years.”

“In order to prolong my career, I need to enjoy, I need to choose wisely tournaments I am going to play.”

Although he’s happy to be back home and playing tennis, the Serbian won’t be participating in the Belgrade Open, running from November 3rd to 9th. He didn’t detail why he won’t play at the event, but it’s likely just a scheduling decision.