Djokovic’s Cincinnati campaign ends as fitness concerns resurface before US Open

Novak Djokovic’s Cincinnati Open campaign ended at his first appearance after a defeat by Thiago Tirante, with the Serbian’s physical struggles raising further questions over his readiness for the US Open.

Djokovic began the match strongly, controlling the early exchanges with the powerful and accurate groundstrokes that have defined his career. However, his physical condition deteriorated noticeably at the start of the second set, allowing Tirante to take control and attack the 24-time Grand Slam champion’s increasingly difficult situation.

Djokovic required medical attention after a game that lasted 16 minutes. Following the treatment break, he was unable to win a single point when he returned to the court for the remainder of the second set, bringing his involvement in the tournament to an abrupt end.

The result ended Djokovic’s unbeaten record in Cincinnati, where he had not lost since 2019. He had also won the last two editions in which he competed, making this early departure a significant setback.

Djokovic said his performance had been affected by a health problem that has troubled him for several years. He explained that its impact becomes more severe in conditions of extreme heat and humidity, such as those he experienced during the match against Tirante.

The Serbian added that the circumstances alone were not responsible for his difficulties. He said the psychological pressure and nerves that accompany matches of this intensity also made the problem harder to manage.

Djokovic also suggested that he may not return to compete in Cincinnati in the future. He said he hoped to play at the tournament again, but admitted that, at present, such a return appeared unlikely.

The defeat leaves Djokovic facing renewed uncertainty ahead of the US Open, the final Grand Slam tournament of the season. He will arrive at Flushing Meadows without having played a competitive match on hard courts beforehand.

That lack of preparation mirrors the situation he faced before his appearances at Roland Garros and Wimbledon. In both cases, Djokovic entered the Grand Slam without recently competing in an official match on the relevant surface.

His Cincinnati defeat therefore represents more than an early exit from a Masters 1000 event. It has also exposed the physical challenge Djokovic continues to face in demanding matches, particularly when playing in difficult weather conditions.

The match against Tirante appeared to underline the gap between Djokovic’s strong start and his ability to maintain that level physically. Once his condition declined, Tirante was able to seize the initiative, while Djokovic struggled to respond after receiving medical treatment.

The timing of the loss adds to the focus on Djokovic’s condition before the US Open begins. With no hard-court match now scheduled before the tournament, questions remain over how prepared he will be for another Grand Slam campaign.