The 2025 Italian Open has kicked off with the qualifying matches currently in progress and the main draw set to start on May 6. Excitement is in the air as both the ATP and WTA draws were revealed on May 5, promising a tournament filled with action and intriguing storylines.
One of the most anticipated aspects of this year’s Italian Open is the return of three-time Grand Slam champion and World No. 1, Jannik Sinner. The Italian player, a favorite among the home crowd, recently completed a three-month doping ban and is making his comeback to the tour at this prestigious Masters 1000 event in Rome.
While the tournament features a star-studded field, it is also notable for the absence of some prominent and legendary names. Among the missing players are Novak Djokovic and Venus Williams, two iconic figures in the world of tennis.
Here is a closer look at five tennis players who will not be participating in the 2025 Italian Open:
### 5. Gael Monfils
Gael Monfils was among the first players to withdraw from the Italian Open. The Frenchman, who has had a challenging 2025 season so far, cited health reasons for his decision to skip the tournament. Monfils recently gave a walkover at the Madrid Open due to a virus, and he is focusing on his recovery rather than competing in Rome.
### 4. Caroline Wozniacki
Former World No. 1 Caroline Wozniacki has been on a limited schedule since coming out of retirement in 2023. The Danish player, who is expecting her third child with husband David Lee, has been away from the tour since the 2024 US Open. Wozniacki’s absence from the Italian Open is due to her pregnancy and the impending arrival of her third child.
### 3. Nick Kyrgios
Nick Kyrgios, known for his explosive playing style, will also be missing from the Italian Open lineup. The Australian player has been plagued by injuries in recent years, leading to inconsistent performances on the tour. Kyrgios aims to make his comeback at the French Open later in the month after taking time off to recover and prepare for the upcoming tournament.
### 2. Venus Williams
Venus Williams, a seven-time Grand Slam champion, has been inactive on the tour for an extended period. Despite rumors of her participation at Indian Wells, Williams decided to forgo the Italian Open and focus on a new venture. The American tennis star will be joining the TNT Sports broadcasting team at Roland Garros, exploring a different role in the tennis world.
### 1. Novak Djokovic
The biggest absence at the 2025 Italian Open is Novak Djokovic. The Serbian legend, who is nearing 38 and has hinted at retirement, opted to skip the tournament this year. Speculations suggest that Djokovic is focusing on preparing for the French Open, where he aims to secure his 25th Grand Slam title. The decision to withdraw from the Italian Open allows Djokovic to dedicate more time to training and getting ready for the upcoming major event.
As the 2025 Italian Open unfolds, fans will miss the presence of these accomplished players on the court. Their absence opens up opportunities for other competitors to shine and make their mark in the tournament.
