Novak Djokovic’s Health Concerns After Cincinnati Open Exit

Novak Djokovic hinted at a health issue following his unexpected exit from the Cincinnati Open on Saturday. Djokovic, 39, lost to Thiago Agustín Tirante in the second round. The Serbian star struggled visibly during the match and even took a medical timeout after appearing to vomit. The intense match lasted nearly three hours, ending with Tirante defeating the 24-time Grand Slam champion.

Djokovic described the match as “not enjoyable.” He mentioned a health condition that has been troubling him for the past few years, particularly in hot, humid conditions. However, Djokovic did not specify the health issue. He acknowledged that factors like nerves aggravated the situation.

“It’s just a condition that I have, healthwise, that has been bothering me for the past couple of years,” Djokovic said.

After the match, Djokovic congratulated Tirante. Tirante expressed that this win might be the highlight of his career. He praised Djokovic as a significant figure in tennis. Tirante managed to break Djokovic’s serve in the ninth game of the final set, winning 2-6, 6-4, 6-4 in 2 hours and 44 minutes.

Djokovic has a strong history at the Cincinnati Open, but his record now stands at 45-13. He expressed uncertainty about returning to the tournament in the future.

“I certainly hope so, but it looks more likely not, unfortunately,” Djokovic remarked.

This tournament was Djokovic’s first since his loss to Jannik Sinner at Wimbledon in July. He withdrew from the Canadian Open earlier in August, likely to prepare for the U.S. Open, which begins on August 30. Djokovic has secured the U.S. Open title four times.