Novak Djokovic has continued his frustrating season by taking the decision to withdraw from the Italian Open.
John Isner thinks Djokovic can win Wimbledon, despite the Serbian having now lost his last three matches.
Djokovic suffered all three defeats by straight sets, although the first did arrive in the final of the Miami Open.
Many tennis fans want Djokovic to retire amid this run, with the veteran losing his first matches at the Monte Carlo Masters and the Madrid Open.
He currently occupies fifth place in the ATP Tour rankings, but top spot for men’s Grand Slam titles with 24.
Novak Djokovic shares social media message after Italian Open withdrawal
Djokovic should have another chance to reach 25 at the upcoming French Open, but he has decided to skip a major event in the build up to Roland Garros.
Confirming his absence on social media, he wrote on his Instagram story: “Rome I will miss you. I hope we will meet next year.”
What has Novak Djokovic suggested about his retirement plans?
It is a surprising decision from Djokovic for more reasons than one, with his previous success at the event near the top of that list.
Having made his debut back in 2007, he has competed at the Italian Open every year since, winning the title on six occasions.
For his fans, however, and indeed most within the game, his short message does suggest that retirement is in no way imminent.
Djokovic is clearly wanting to return to Rome next year, and clearly thinks he is still capable of competing at the ATP Masters 1000 tournament despite his recent struggles.
Just like Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal before him, the Serbian will leave a huge hole in tennis when he does finally retire.
But perhaps it is simply an injury issue or even fatigue that is preventing the 37-year-old from taking part in the next big event in the calendar.
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