World No. 01 Novak Djokovic to skip Miami Open 2021

World No. #1 Novak Djokovic said that he would not play in this year's ATP Miami Open season, which will be held next week. The 33-year-old Serbian star player won the 18th Grand Slam singles crown and ninth Australian Open singles title last month.

This puts Djokovic third on the all-time men's list after the 20 slam titles owned by Federer and Nadal.

With this, Djokovic will not participate in the tournament along with fellow Grand Slam legends Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer.

Dear fans, I’m very sorry to announce that this year I won’t travel to Miami to compete. I decided to use this precious time at home to stay with my family. With all restrictions, I need to find balance in my time on tour and at home. I look forward to coming back next year!

— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) March 19, 2021

Djokovic, a six-time Miami champion, cited the worldwide travel problems caused by the pandemic and his desire to balance events and family life.

Federer won the last Miami Open title in 2019, his fourth career trophy at the event, with the tournament, cancelled last year due to a deadly virus outbreak. Later this season, he wanted to improve his fitness before the other major leagues.

The 34-year-old Nadal has not played since he was ousted from the Australian Open quarterfinals by Greek player Stefanos Tsitsipas last month.

Sad to announce that I won’t be playing in Miami, a city that I love. I need to fully recover and get ready for the clay court season in Europe. Special message to my fans in the US and in particular to the great Spanish speaking community FL who always give me a great support!

— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) March 16, 2021

Nadal is seeking his 5th consecutive French Open title and the 14th crown of Roland Garros's career. He never won the Miami crown after losing five finals.