Why is Novak Djokovic not playing at ATP Finals 2025? All about Serb's decision and how that affects the groups with Carlos Alcaraz & Jannik Sinner

Novak Djokovic has chosen to withdraw from the ATP Finals in Turin. He recently clinched the Hellenic Championships by defeating Lorenzo Musetti 4-6, 6-3, 7-5 in Athens.

Djokovic was expected to fly to Turin after competing in Athens. His withdrawal opens the door for Lorenzo Musetti to replace him and make his first appearance at the ATP Finals.

The Serb revealed that he was struggling with a shoulder problem throughout the Hellenic Championships last week. He survived the final on heavy painkillers and wouldn't be able to compete at a high level in Turin.

"I had shoulder issues during whole tournament. Took some strong pain killers to play in finals. When after effects go down, won’t be pleasant. Couldn’t play in Turin on required level, considering the issues," Novak Djokovic said in his post-match press conference after winning the Hellenic Championships

The former World No. 1 also addressed the situation with his fans via social media. He apologized for missing out and wished the players an amazing tournament next week.

"I was really looking forward to competing in Turin and giving my best, but after today's final in Athens, I'm sad to share that I need to withdraw due to an ongoing injury. I'm truly sorry to the fans who were hoping to see me play. Your support means so much. I wish all the players an amazing tournament, and I can't wait to be back on the court with you all soon," Novak Djokovic added

Novak Djokovic shares an update via social media - Image Source: @djokernole Instagram

Djokovic has won the ATP Finals seven times in his career. He won the event in 2023 by defeating Jannik Sinner in the final.

Lorenzo Musetti replaces Novak Djokovic at the ATP Finals 2025

Djokovic and Musetti at the Hellenic Championship - Source: Getty

Lorenzo Musetti is set to make his debut at the ATP Finals next week. He will replace Djokovic as the eighth participant in Turin.

The 23-year-old chose to compete in Athens to qualify for the ATP Finals. He was frustrated to learn about his fate last minute, but accepted to compete in Turin.

Here's what Musetti said after the Hellenic Championships final:

"Novak told me on the court that he won’t be going to Turin. Not sure how to feel now after loss in finals, but Novak told me that. It’s better that Race to Turin will stop after Paris next year," Lorenzo Musetti said

The Italian has had an amazing season so far, amassing 44 wins from 64 matches, including runner-up finishes at Monte-Carlo, Chengdu, and Athens. He also reached the semifinals in Madrid, Rome, Paris, and Vienna this year.

Musetti also acknowledged Djokovic's effort after losing the finals in Athens. He praised the Serb's work ethic and incredible career on tour.

"Novak, there are not many words to say about you and your career. You are proving, still at your age, that you can kick us, like me today. Everytime I share the court with you, I take it as a lesson, so thanks for that,” Musetti added

Lorenzo Musetti to join the Jimmy Connors group alongside Carlos Alcaraz at the ATP Finals

Musetti at the Rolex Paris Masters 2025 - Day 3 - Source: Getty

The eight players for the ATP Finals have been confirmed, with two Italians qualifying for the first time in Turin. The tournament will begin on Sunday, November 9, 2025.

Lorenzo Musetti will be a part of the Jimmy Connors, alongside Carlos Alcaraz, Taylor Fritz, and Alex De Minaur. The Italian is scheduled to begin his campaign on Monday.

Here are the final eight participants and groups at the ATP Finals this year.

ATP FINALS 2025 – GROUPS

SINGLES

BJORN BORG GROUP

1) Jannik Sinner

2) Alexander Zverev

3) Ben Shelton

4) Felix Auger-Aliassime

ANDRE AGASSI GROUP

1) Carlos Alcaraz

2) Taylor Fritz

3) Alex de Minaur

4) Lorenzo Musetti

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DOUBLES

PETER FLEMING GROUP

1) Julian Cash / Lloyd Glasspool

2) Marcel Granollers / Horacio Zeballos

3) Kevin Krawietz / Tim Puetz

4) Simone Bolelli / Andrea Vavassori

JOHN MCENROE GROUP

1) Harri Heliövaara / Henry Patten

2) Marcelo Arevalo / Mate Pavic

3) Joe Salisbury / Neal Skupski

4) Christian Harrison / Evan King

Carlos Alcaraz will begin proceedings against Alex De Minaur from the Jimmy Connors group. Meanwhile, Ben Shelton and Alexander Zverev will battle it out from Bjorn Borg's side.