Novak Djokovic Accepts Invite To Genova To Get Ready For French Open

Novak Djokovic, the number #1 player in the world, made a surprising decision this week.

After losing in the Italian Open and looking clearly shaken by getting hit in the head with a water bottle, Djokovic decided to go against his usual habits. According to reports, in need of a boost before the major French Open, the Serbian accepted an invite to play at the Genova ATP.

This is rare for the champion tennis player as most athletes tend to rest before a major competition, but Djokovic could use the extra playing time. He bounced unexpectedly in straight sets this past week in Italy, his earliest departure from the tournament ever, and received medical treatment after the water bottle left him on the ground for over 30 seconds.

After the tournament, he said that the freak accident affected his play and could be a reason for his shock exit. Other stars also struggled in Rome, as Rafael Nadal lost in the first round, and only one player ranked in the top five made it to the semifinals. Djokovic has won the Italian Open six times, and he last reigned supreme in 2022.

The French Open begins on May 26, one week after the conclusion of the Italian Open.