Martina Navratilova believes that Novak Djokovic, who just lately pulled out of the upcoming Miami Open, is doubting himself after his trophyless begin to the yr. Djokovic has struggled to carry out to his personal excessive requirements in latest months, with the Serb nonetheless ready to win his first title of 2024.

Djokovic made it to the semi-finals of the Australian Open however was overwhelmed by Jannik Sinner, who went on to say his maiden Grand Slam title by profitable the event. Things went from unhealthy to worse for Djokovic at Indian Wells, the place he fell to a shock third-round defeat by the hands of Italian fortunate loser Luca Nardi.

He later confirmed that he would not be playing at the Miami Open, prompting Navratilova to recommend that Djokovic is likely to be harbouring self-doubt as a consequence of his 'rusty' type.

"Sinner played a flawless match in Australia and that’s what it takes to beat someone as good as Novak Djokovic," mentioned Navratilova, talking to Sky Sports. "Also after that Novak took six weeks off, and it’s great that he can take that kind of time off, but you have to be rusty a little bit.

"You’re rested however you rusted so that you want these matches to get again into the swing of issues, and Novak bumped into a man who was actually scorching that day. What occurs while you become older is the unhealthy days are worse.

"You have to have it [doubt] no matter what. Even if you don’t have it, the press reminds you. I wouldn’t worry about it if you have Novak’s mindset and I’m sure he’s not worried about it at all."

Djokovic is more likely to return to motion at subsequent month's Monte Carlo Masters, a event he has gained twice however the Serb has not gone past the quarter-finals since 2015. He defined his resolution to withdraw from the Miami Open on Sunday, posting a message on X (previously Twitter) to replace his supporters.

"Hi Miami! Unfortunately I won’t be playing the Miami Open this year," mentioned Djokovic. "At this stage of my career, I’m balancing my private and professional schedule. I’m sorry that I won’t experience some of the best and most passionate fans in the world. I’m looking fw [forward[ competing in MI [Miami] in future!"