Novak Djokovic Discusses Health Challenges After Cincinnati Open Loss

Tennis player Novak Djokovic hinted at dealing with a health issue following his early exit from the Cincinnati Open on Saturday. He lost in the second round to 25-year-old Thiago Agustín Tirante. Djokovic, 39, appeared to struggle during the match and even vomited at one stage, leading to a medical timeout. The match extended for nearly three hours before Tirante defeated the 24-time Grand Slam winner.

“It’s just a condition that I have, healthwise, that has been bothering me for the past couple of years,” Djokovic said. “A lot of issues, especially when it is humid and it is hot.”

Djokovic did not provide details on the specific health issue. He had predicted the humidity would be a factor but noted that nerves and other elements exacerbate the situation.

Following the match, Djokovic congratulated Tirante. Tirante called the win potentially the highlight of his career and acknowledged Djokovic as a pivotal figure in tennis history.

“I think I really did a good job inside the court,” Tirante stated. “I managed very well the nerves of playing against a legend like Novak.”

Despite Djokovic saving 13 of the 15 break points he encountered, Tirante broke his serve in the final set’s ninth game and served out the match. The scores were 2-6, 6-4, 6-4 in 2 hours and 44 minutes.

Djokovic has a history of success at the Cincinnati Open, but this loss adjusted his record there to 45-13, according to the ATP Tour. It might be his last appearance at the tournament. When asked about returning, Djokovic appeared uncertain.

“I certainly hope so, but it looks more likely not, unfortunately,” he commented. “But let’s see what the future brings.”

This was Djokovic’s first tournament since his defeat to Italy’s Jannik Sinner at Wimbledon in July. He withdrew from the Canadian Open earlier, possibly to prepare for the upcoming U.S. Open. The U.S. Open, the year’s final Grand Slam, starts on August 30, and Djokovic has won the title four times.