Rome: Novak Djokovic was beaten by gutsy qualifier Dino Prizmic on his return to action in the Italian Open second round. World number four Djokovic was playing his first match since March 12, and more importantly, his first of the year on clay, after missing several tournaments due to a shoulder injury.
According to Ghana Web, a six-time champion in Rome, Djokovic started strongly but appeared labored and seemed to struggle with illness in the second set. Despite his challenges, Croatia's Prizmic played bravely to overpower Djokovic with a 2-6, 6-2, 6-4 victory. The 20-year-old, who idolizes Djokovic, expressed his admiration by writing "Nole it was a pleasure" on the camera lens after the match.
Djokovic, who received a first-round bye in Italy, announced that he will not compete again before the French Open begins on May 24, where he aims to secure a record 25th Grand Slam singles title. Reflecting on his current condition, the 38-year-old stated, "I'm not definitely where I want to be to compete at the highest level and to be able to get far. I don't recall last time I had a preparation where I didn't have any kind of physical issues or health issues coming into the tournament."
In previous encounters, Djokovic had beaten Prizmic at the 2024 Australian Open, describing the experience as "like playing myself in a mirror." Initially, Djokovic seemed dominant, dropping only three points on serve to secure a swift first set. However, Prizmic, with a powerful serve and forehand, took control in the second set by winning four consecutive games.
The third set saw both players leave the court briefly, with Djokovic appearing more energized upon return. Nevertheless, Prizmic continued to excel, breaking for a 3-2 lead as Djokovic sent a volley long, eventually securing the biggest victory of his career with a decisive ace.
This marks Prizmic's second top-10 win in as many weeks, following his defeat of world number six Ben Shelton at the Madrid Open last month. Djokovic, reflecting on the match, commented, "I don't think I played so bad, to be honest. It was a good battle in the end."
Prizmic, the boys' champion at Roland Garros three years ago, capitalized on Djokovic's drop in form during the second set. Djokovic's preparation for the tournament was already hampered by the shoulder injury sustained in Indian Wells in March. As the French Open approaches, Djokovic hopes for a favorable draw to regain sharpness and improve his form.