Novak Djokovic accepts Geneva wild card after undergoing head scan for Rome injury

Last week, Andy Murray was announced as a wild card by Gonet Geneva Open organizers.

This week, the ATP 250 event has further bolstered its player field by bringing in the world No. 1 for a rare appearance the week prior to a Grand Slam tournament.

On Friday, it was reported that Novak Djokovic will make his debut. The 24-time major champion is looking for matches as he gears up to defending his Roland Garros crown.

In Rome, Djokovic’s bid was marred by a head injury that resulted from a fan’s metal water bottle slipping from a backpack. The Serbian returned to play less than 48 hours later, but was handily beaten by Alejandro Tabilo in a defeat where he admitted to feeling “like a completely different player” on the court.

Djokovic returned to Belgrade to undergo scans for the injury and was reportedly given the all-clear by doctors.

Still searching for his first title of the year, Djokovic’s strongest results thus far are semifinal showings at the Australian Open and Monte Carlo. He will celebrate his 37th birthday next Wednesday.

With Djokovic moving into the draw, 2022 title holder Casper Ruud has been bumped to the No. 2 seed. Nearly a year ago, Djokovic defeated the Norwegian to capture his third Roland Garros crown.

Americans Taylor Fritz and Ben Shelton are in line to be seeded third and fourth, respectively. Defending champion Nicolas Jarry has withdrawn, as he prepares to take on Tommy Paul in his maiden Masters 1000 semifinal at the Foro Italico.