"Why is Novak Djokovic doing this?";"Doesn't want Jannik Sinner to be World No. 1"- Fans react to Serb playing Geneva Open week before French Open

Novak Djokovic has accepted a wildcard entry into the Geneva ATP 250 event just a week before the 2024 French Open. Fans have tried to comprehend the World No. 1's decision with most concluding that he needs to reignite his form before defending his title in Paris.

Djokovic faced a shock early exit at the 2024 Italian Open. He was convincingly defeated by Alejandro Tabilo in the third round of the tournament. However, concerns were raised when the Serb complained about his head injury seemingly playing a role in his defeat.

Djokovic was struck by a metal water bottle in an unfortunate incident while he was signing autographs for fans after his second-round win over Corentin Moutet in Rome. Although the injury did not force him to withdraw from the tournament, the Serb mentioned that it may have caused him problems against Tabilo.

However, Djokovic is still reportedly set to participate in the Geneva Open from next week. In light of that, fans have tried to comprehend the Serb's decision.

"Bro doesn't want Sinner to be world number 1," wrote one fan.

"Why is this man doing this. These lower ranked tennis players just tryna get some points in man," wrote another.

"He must feel he needs a good tournament first, to be ready! Djokovic going for #25, and If Sinner & Alcaraz arent match tough, Nole sees a great opportunity!" one account posted.

"Novak is smart he knows he needs a few more matches on clay. A good decision," wrote another.

"Yeah he needs some sharpness, not a lot played overall this year and really needs to step it up if he wants Olympics," wrote yet another.

Previously, Djokovic has once participated in an ATP 250 tournament a week before the French Open. Many fans remembered that occurrence.

"Rare but I think he pulled it off before one of his RG wins in the past. I’m sure he knows best but will surely stir a debate," wrote one fan.

Another fan wrote, "If I'm not wrong he also did that before RG 2021, right?"

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Novak Djokovic played an ATP 250 tournament in Belgrade before the French Open in 2021

Novak Djokovic at the Italian Open.

In 2021, Novak Djokovic lost in the final of the Italian Open against Rafael Nadal. The French Open was about to begin within two weeks of the final in Rome, but the Serb still decided to play an ATP 250 tournament in Belgrade.

Djokovic played four matches and won his home tournament. Days after winning in Belgrade, Djokovic went to Paris and won the French Open. He defeated Nadal in the semifinal and Stefanos Tsitsipas in the final to win the Grand Slam.