(Rome) Novak Djokovic struggled heavily at one of his favorite tournaments, Sunday in Rome, being surprised 6-2 and 6-3 by Alejandro Tabilo, 29e seeded, in the third round of the Italian Open.
It was Djokovic’s first match since an accident where he was hit in the head with what appeared to be a canteen or water bottle Friday while signing autographs.
Djokovic started with a double fault and things didn’t really improve for the Serbian, a six-time champion in Rome.
“I still slept well despite the headaches,” Djokovic said. Saturday went well, so I thought I was OK. Maybe I am, maybe I’m not.
“I mean, today it’s like a whole different player put on my shoes. No rhythm, tempo or balance, on any strikes. This is a bit concerning. I will have to undergo some tests. »
ATP number 1, Djokovic lost his first two serving games.
He lost in just 68 minutes, conceding victory to the 26-year-old Chilean by committing a fifth double fault.
PHOTO CLAUDIA GRECO, REUTERS
Alejandro Tabilo
“I’m trying to absorb all this and wake up,” Tabilo said, after the most notable victory of his career. I just wanted to try to contain my nervousness and hit the ball well. »
Towards the end of the match my arms were getting tired, but I tried not to think about it. I can’t believe what happened.
Alejandro Tabilo
The third-round loss marked Djokovic’s worst performance at the Italian Open.
He had only lost once to an opponent outside the top 10 in Rome, where he had never lost before the quarter-finals.
On Saturday, Rafael Nadal, titled 10 times at the Foro Italico, was defeated 6-1, 6-3 by Hubert Hurkacz in the third round.
Djokovic said he was “okay” after the water bottle incident, but it was still a bad outing on Sunday.
A winner of 24 Grand Slam tournaments, Djokovic wants to raise his game on clay as he approaches the French Open, where he is the reigning champion.
The French Open will begin on May 26.