Djokovic Withdraws From Qatar Open Citing Fatigue; Alcaraz and Sinner Lead Stacked Field
24-time Grand Slam champion pulls out of Doha just 10 days after epic Australian Open final defeat
February 12, 2026 | 3 min read
DOHA, Qatar — Novak Djokovic has withdrawn from the upcoming Qatar Open, citing “strong fatigue” following his gruelling Australian Open campaign, tournament organisers confirmed Wednesday.
The 38-year-old, ranked world No. 3, reached his 11th Melbourne final earlier this month—surviving a four-hour semi-final against Jannik Sinner before falling in four sets to Carlos Alcaraz. The physical toll of that run proved decisive.
Djokovic’s decision aligns with recent signals that he will prioritise Grand Slams and national duty over regular ATP Tour events.
“I don’t want to make decisions about my schedule so far in advance. Right now, my only wish is to be with my family, and then I’ll see what’s next.”
The Serb previously skipped Davis Cup qualifiers in February to avoid travel to South America. His next scheduled appearance is at Indian Wells, beginning March 1.
| Seeding | Player | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Carlos Alcaraz | Headlines field |
| 2 | Jannik Sinner | Tournament debut |
| 3 | ~~Novak Djokovic~~ | WITHDRAWN |
| — | Valentin Royer | Lucky loser entry |
Djokovic, a two-time champion in Doha (2016, 2017), holds a 15-3 record at the event. His replacement, Valentin Royer, steps into a draw now headlined by Alcaraz and Sinner.
Defending champion Andrey Rublev returns, joined by Daniil Medvedev, Felix Auger-Aliassime, and Jakub Mensik.
What’s Next
The ATP 500 event runs February 16–22. Djokovic’s focus now shifts to the North American swing, with Indian Wells and Miami looming.
For Doha, the champion’s absence has only sharpened the spotlight on the sport’s next generation.