Novak Djokovic is set to return to the tennis court very soon after taking time off after the 2025 US Open.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion lost in the semi-finals at Flushing Meadows to Carlos Alcaraz and has not competed at any event since.
The Serbian turned down the opportunity to represent Europe at the recent Laver Cup tournament, and he will also not compete at upcoming ATP 500 events in Beijing or Tokyo.
This is part of the 38-year-old's new approach to tennis, which involves him playing fewer tournaments on the ATP Tour and prioritising major events.
The desire for Djokovic to spend fewer minutes on the court stems from him simply requiring longer rest and recuperation periods as he is at the tail end of his illustrious career.
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When fans can expect to see Djokovic next
It has now been confirmed that Djokovic will make his return to the court at the 2025 Shanghai Masters.
We can't wait to welcome @DjokerNole back to Shanghai next week ✨#RolexShanghaiMasters pic.twitter.com/cSgr6E6ZrV
— Rolex Shanghai Masters (@SH_RolexMasters) September 23, 2025
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The ATP Masters 1000 event is a favourite of the Serbian, as he is a four-time champion there, making him the most successful singles player in the tournament's history.
The current world no. 4 last won in Shanghai seven years ago and was the runner-up in last year's final, losing to Jannik Sinner in straight sets.
Sinner, Alcaraz and more of the world's top ranked male players are also expected to enter the draw for this year's tournament, which will be the penultimate ATP 1000 event of 2025.
Once done competing in China's biggest city, Djokovic will turn his attention to the 2025 6 Kings Slam exhibition event in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where he will compete against Sinner, Alcaraz, Alexander Zverev, Taylor Fritz and Stefanos Tsitsipas.
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