Tim Henman has described Novak Djokovic’s withdrawal from the 2024 Miami Open as “quite revealing” because the great Serb referenced balancing his “private and professional” schedule.

Laura Robson also shared her thoughts on Djokovic’s decision and feels it could be due to the 36-year-old wanting to spend more time with his children.

Six-time champion Djokovic withdraws…

Following his upset defeat to Luca Nardi at the Indian Wells Masters last week, it was announced that Djokovic would not feature in the second leg of the ‘Sunshine Double’ in Miami.

In a post on X, the world No 1 said: “Unfortunately I won’t be playing the @MiamiOpen this year. At this stage of my career, I’m balancing my private and professional schedule.

“I’m sorry that I won’t experience some of the best and most passionate fans in the world. I’m looking fw (forward) competing in MI (Miami) in future!”

Speaking on Sky Sports during Indian Wells, former world No 27 Robson suggested the fact Djokovic is often away from his family due to the demands of the tour could be a factor in him skipping Miami.

“Yeah I feel like when you’re away from your kids so often, he just misses them so much. Whether that’s the reason, I’m not totally sure,” the Brit said.

“Really could be anything because it’s not that specific, but he spoke about it a lot in Australia that he misses them when he’s away, that it’s a huge sacrifice for him not to be there.

“And he wants them to see him play tennis, for sure, but equally, the moments at home are just as important to him. And he’s won everything, so, do you really need to win another Miami Open? Do you need to even play that week if you’re not feeling 100% about it? No.”

Former world No 4 Henman then claimed that the 24-time Grand Slam champion not citing a physical reason for his withdrawal will lead to more speculation.

“It’s quite revealing in some respects, because it could’ve been very easy to say, ‘my elbow’s a bit sore, heavy balls in the desert, and I’m gonna take time off’,” the six-time Grand Slam semi-finalist assessed.

“And no one would’ve said anything, but when you sort of elaborate down those avenues, I think it probably does lead a little bit more to speculation when you’re talking about your professional and personal life.

“So, fingers crossed he can sort out whatever the issues are and we can see him back on court in the not too distant future.”