Belgrade: World No.1 Novak Djokovic announced that he will not defend his title at next week's Serbian Open.

The Serbian opted to rest in a bid to recharge his batteries ahead of the clay Masters in Madrid, Xinhua reported.

"I have decided not to take part in the Serbian Open to try get some much needed rest. This is probably one of the most difficult decisions I have made in my career," Djokovic said Wednesday in a statement on his website.

The Serbian Open is held from April 30 to May 6, with total prize money of 418,700 euros (about $551,507).

Djokovic, who lost to Spain's Rafael Nadal Sunday in the Monte Carlo final, said recently that his main focus this year would be on the Olympic Games and the French Open. (IANS)