Djokovic Falls to Prizmic in Rome
Novak Djokovic’s return to competitive tennis following an injury-affected clay-court season concluded with a three-set loss to Croatian qualifier Dino Prizmic at the Italian Open. The 20-year-old Prizmic overcame a first-set deficit to defeat the 38-year-old Serbian star 2-6, 6-2, 6-4 in the second round.
Djokovic, seeded fourth in Rome, had a bye in the first round and had not played since the Indian Wells Masters two months prior. Despite a strong start, Djokovic was physically challenged by Prizmic’s aggressive and resilient play, which ultimately led to the young player’s most significant career victory.
Physical Struggles and New Realities
Reflecting on his preparation for the tournament, Djokovic acknowledged the ongoing physical difficulties he faces as he advances in his career.
“It’s not an ideal preparation, to be honest,” Djokovic said. “I don’t recall the last time I had in the last couple of years a preparation where I didn’t have any kind of physical issues or health issues coming into the tournament. There’s always something. Kind of a new reality that I have to deal with. It is frustrating. At the same time it’s my decision to still perform in that kind of state and conditions. It is what it is.”
Prizmic’s athleticism, defensive skills, and ability to inject pace from both wings wore Djokovic down during long rallies. The Serbian player, whose shoulder was taped, struggled physically and quickly fell behind 0-4 in the second set. After the momentum shifted, Djokovic was unable to regain control of the match.
Respect for Opponent and Match Analysis
Djokovic chose not to discuss his physical condition in detail during the post-match press conference, instead focusing on praising Prizmic’s performance and development since their previous encounter.
“He’s a great competitor, great fighter, a great kid,” Djokovic said. “I’ve known him for some years. Obviously we speak the same language, so I always wish him all the best. Today he has definitely performed high-level tennis. I told him at the net that his forehand improved a lot. Whatever he has been doing with his team is working out well. He should just keep going.”
Implications for Upcoming French Open
This defeat marks the second consecutive year Djokovic will enter Roland Garros without a match win in any of the three ATP Masters clay-court tournaments. Last year, a late wildcard entry at the Geneva Open provided him with sufficient match practice to reach the semi-finals, where he was defeated.
However, Djokovic stated on Friday that he does not plan to compete in any events in the week leading up to the French Open. When asked about his expected condition for the tournament in Paris, Djokovic expressed uncertainty.
“I don’t know,” he said, smiling. “I hope so. Let’s see what happens.”
