Djokovic's last-minute withdrawal from the ATP Finals may worsen tensions with ATP leadership

Djokovic has long had disagreements with the ATP Tour, and recent developments probably won't help ease the friction between them.

Because Djokovic delayed confirming his attendance at the Turin ATP Finals, organizers had to hastily adjust their plans, resulting in a difficult predicament. This event is among the most important on the ATP calendar.

For the ATP, this eight-day season-ending event is more critical than any Grand Slam — as it is fully owned by them and generates millions of dollars through sponsorships and broadcasting deals.

The eight qualifiers receive generous appearance fees, and any player who wins all five matches over the coming days will earn $5.071 million, marking the highest prize money ever awarded in a non-exhibition event at this tournament.

To be eligible for this prize, players must attend pre-tournament events, complete extensive media obligations, and cooperate with the ATP Tour's promotional activities.

In recent weeks, Djokovic’s actions have seriously hindered the ATP’s promotion of this flagship event — he delayed confirming his participation until the night before the tournament started, when he announced he would not travel to Turin.

Djokovic’s withdrawal from the Turin Finals after winning the ATP 250 in Athens was not unexpected. Given his light schedule in recent years, it was unlikely he would rush from Greece to Italy. He also skipped the event last year.

The question remains: when exactly did Djokovic decide to forfeit his spot in the ATP Finals?

According to his statement, he made the decision after a tough match against Lorenzo Musetti in Athens, but some speculate he never intended to compete in this physically demanding elite tournament.

Because he refused to disclose his intentions, his name was included in the draw, and his withdrawal unbalanced the competitive strength of two groups.

Moreover, his hesitation caused Musetti and Aliassime to wait uncertainly for a Finals spot — now that Djokovic has withdrawn, both have secured their places.

During his time in Greece, Djokovic was repeatedly asked about his decision regarding the ATP Finals but remained silent. However, if he had planned to fly quickly from Greece to Italy, extensive arrangements would have been necessary, raising questions about whether he ever made such plans.

Some believe Djokovic did not apologize for the confusion caused by his decision not to go to Italy, yet he undoubtedly feels entitled to choose when to participate.

Ultimately, shouldn’t the ATP reconsider the scheduling of the season?

Few consider Djokovic’s perspective. Imagine if he had announced earlier that he wouldn’t attend Turin — would Musetti have been able to complete the Athens final? Would Djokovic’s championship be accused of “deal-making”?

Isn't the final participant list usually confirmed only after the Athens tournament? Isn’t it standard that the list isn’t locked in well in advance every year?

Last year, Djokovic withdrew three days early because there was no Athens event.

It is said that next year’s ATP Finals qualifiers will be finalized after the Paris Masters.

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