Six-time champion Novak Djokovic has withdrawn from this year's Italian Open, in a blow to his French Open preparations. Djokovic, who has been chasing a 100th tour-level title, will miss the Masters 1000 event in Rome for the first time since making his first appearance in 2007.

ROME — Novak Djokovic pulled out of the Italian Open on Tuesday in the midst of a three-match losing streak, shedding doubt on how well he'll be able to play at the upcoming French Open as he continues to seek a record 25th Grand Slam trophy and 100th tournament title overall.

Novak Djokovic will not take part in the Italian Open next week in another blow to the 24-time Grand Slam winner's preparations for Roland Garros.