Novak Djokovic explains skipping Masters before US Open: Family first, Slams second

Novak Djokovic explained his decision to skip both the Cincinnati Masters and the Toronto Masters, choosing not to play any tournaments after Wimbledon in the lead-up to the 2025 US Open. The 38-year-old said family remains his top priority, and outside of Grand Slams, he wants to dedicate as much time as possible to them.

Djokovic acknowledged that while he hasn’t competed on court for the past six weeks, he has worked hard in training. He added that ATP Masters 1000 events take a heavy toll on his body because of their length and intensity. At this stage of his career, he is no longer chasing ranking points and believes he has earned the right to set his own schedule.

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“Honestly, I haven’t played a match since Wimbledon, so in that sense ‘cold’ is the right word. But I’ve trained a lot over the past three or four weeks. I chose not to play the Canadian or Cincinnati Masters because I wanted more time with my family. At this stage of my career, I feel I’ve earned the right to choose my schedule,” Djokovic said in the pre-tournament press conference.

“To be frank, I don’t really enjoy the two-week Masters events anymore—they’re too long for me. My main focus is on the Grand Slams. I’m not chasing ranking points or trying to fill up my schedule like I used to. For me now, it’s about where I feel motivated and inspired to play my best tennis - and that’s mostly the Slams,” Djokovic said.

‘Miss my daughter’s birthday’

Chasing a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title in New York, Djokovic admitted there are personal sacrifices involved. He noted that he may have to miss his daughter Tara’s eighth birthday on September 2 if his run at the US Open continues - something he doesn’t take lightly, as missing family milestones weighs heavily on him.

“Of course, family is my top priority. For example, I may miss my daughter’s birthday on September 2 if I’m still competing here, and that’s something I don’t take lightly. At this point in my life, being there for important family moments matters just as much as being on court,” Djokovic added.

In the opening round of the US Open 2025 on Sunday, August 24, Djokovic will face the United States’ Learner Tien.