Should we be surprised that Novak Djokovic chose Geneva over Rome?

In the tennis world today, there is significant focus on Novak Djokovic of Belgrade, Serbia. The current world number five is among the greatest players of all-time, and could even be considered number one due to the fact he has won the most majors with 24.

This past month, Djokovic made tennis headlines when he decided not to compete at the Italian Open. Criticism of Djokovic increased due to the fact he did not give a reason for his absence. Then, he decided today to compete at the Geneva Open later this month, which is only a 250 event, while the Italian Open is part of the Masters 1000 series level.

The bottom line is Djokovic has struggled with his game as of late. He has an unprecedented three match losing streak, where he lost 7-6, 7-6 to Jakub Mensik of the Czech Republic in the final of Miami, 6-3, 6-4 to Alejandro Tabilo of Chile in the second round of Monte Carlo and 6-3, 6-4 to Matteo Arnaldi of Italy in the second round of Madrid.

This is in fact the second three match losing streak in 2025 for Djokovic. Djokovic also withdrew after the first set against Alexander Zverev of Germany at the Australian Open. He then lost 7-6, 6-2 to Matteo Berrettini of Italy in the first round of Qatar, and then lost 6-2, 3-6, 6-1 to Botic van de Zandschulp of the Netherlands in the first round of Indian Wells.

Due to Djokovic’s recent struggles, sometimes practice and rest is better than game action. Djokovic has every right to choose his schedule. At 37 years of age, there should be more praise of Djokovic’s past remarkable accomplishments than scrutiny of the events he decides to be and not be in. Djokovic deserves that right. In choosing Geneva over Rome, it is a smaller event with fewer stars. Djokovic will be able to work on his game with a little less scrutiny that takes place with a 1000 Masters event.