Serbian tennis player Novak Djokovic announced his withdrawal from the 2025 ATP Finals, canceling the scheduled clash against Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz, in the Jimmy Connors group, in Turin, Italy. The decision took place on November 8, one day before the start of the tournament, due to an injury to his right shoulder aggravated after his victory at the ATP 250 in Athens. Italian Lorenzo Musetti took Djokovic’s place, changing the dynamics of the group stage that began on Sunday, November 9.
Alcaraz, current number 2 in the world, expressed his preference for his new opponent in a press conference after his debut victory.
- Musetti, 23 years old, has a record of 1 win in 7 games against Alcaraz.
- The Serbian, with 7 titles in the Finals, regretted his absence in a post on social media.
Djokovic’s injury reflects the wear and tear of the season, with 101 career titles accumulated so far.
Nerves of steel ⛓️@Taylor_Fritz97 unlocks a tight opening set 7-6(2) over Alcaraz. #NittoATPFinals pic.twitter.com/viCKQe3YIP
— ATP Tour (@atptour) November 11, 2025
Reason for injury and chronology of events
Djokovic’s shoulder injury occurred during the Athens ATP, where he won the tournament by defeating Musetti in the final 4-6, 6-3, 7-5. The 38-year-old Serbian opted to preserve his health to avoid worsening, according to an official statement from the ATP.
The announcement came hours after the group draw, held on November 6, which placed Djokovic alongside Alcaraz, Taylor Fritz and Alex de Minaur. The ATP confirmed the immediate replacement, ensuring the tournament continues without interruption.
Jimmy Connors group changes
The Jimmy Connors group suffered a direct impact with the departure of Djokovic, seven-times champion of the Finals. Alcaraz debuted with a victory over de Minaur 7-6(5), 6-2, in a match played at the Pala Alpitour.
Fritz beat Musetti 6-4, 7-6(4) the following day, setting up the next duel between the Spaniard and the American.
- Alcaraz is looking for points to challenge Jannik Sinner for number 1 in the rankings.
- Musetti, 9th placed, debuts at home against Fritz, with 44 wins this season.
The current lineup includes Alcaraz (1st seed), Fritz (6th), de Minaur (7th) and Musetti (substitute).
History of clashes between Alcaraz and Djokovic
Djokovic and Alcaraz have met nine times in their careers, with the Serbian leading 5-4. The last meeting took place in the 2025 US Open semifinal, won by the Spaniard in straight sets.
In Turlast year, Djokovic eliminated Alcaraz in the semi-finals 6-3, 6-2, highlighting his hard court dominance.
The cancellation deprives fans of a duel that could define favorites in the group stage, considering the recent balance. Alcaraz has won the last two Majors against the Serbian, at Roland Garros and Flushing Meadows.
Impact on the dispute for the world ranking
Sinner, current number 1 and defending title, remains in the Bjorn Borg group with Zverev, Shelton and Auger-Aliassime. The Italian needs the trophy to maintain his lead, with just 250 points ahead of Alcaraz.
Statements from Alcaraz about the new group
Carlos Alcaraz commented on Djokovic’s absence after his successful debut. The Spaniard highlighted the difficulty of facing the Serb, but admitted relief with Musetti as a substitute.
He recalled the defeat in 2024 in the Finals, emphasizing learning against veterans like Djokovic, with 24 Grand Slam titles.
ATP Finals format and prizes
The tournament adopts a round-robin format, with the top two from each group advancing to the semi-finals. The total prize pool exceeds 15 million dollars, with the champion receiving 4.6 million.
- Group stage: November 9th to 14th.
- Semifinals: November 15th.
- End: November 16th
The broadcast takes place on ESPN and Disney+ in Brazil, reaching a global audience of millions of viewers.
