Novak Djokovic’s return to competitive tennis ended unexpectedly at the Cincinnati Open on Saturday, as the Serbian champion fell to Argentine player Thiago Tirante in a grueling second-round matchup. The contest lasted over two and a half hours, with Tirante securing a 2-6, 6-4, 6-4 victory. For Djokovic, this marked his first competitive appearance since losing to Jannik Sinner at Wimbledon more than a month earlier.
The oppressive heat and humidity conditions at the Ohio venue proved decisive in the match’s outcome. Despite capturing the opening set comfortably, Djokovic visibly struggled as temperatures climbed, requiring medical intervention between sets. He was seen dropping to his hands and knees during several exchanges and needed assistance from a physio and doctor, who provided assessments and ice towels to help him cope with the physical demands.
Tirante secured the pivotal break in the ninth game of the final set, converting on his fourth opportunity after Djokovic’s failed drop shot attempt. The Argentine concluded the victory in the following game when another Djokovic drop shot failed on match point. Following his exit, the 24-time Grand Slam champion suggested this could be his final Cincinnati appearance, stating he likely would not return to compete at the venue.
Elsewhere in the tournament, top-seeded Alexander Zverev advanced past Cameron Norrie in a marathon early-morning contest that concluded at 2:15am, extending his undefeated record against the British player to eight consecutive victories.
Originally reported by Aljazeera →
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