Novak Djokovic Ousted from Cincinnati Open After Collapsing on Court

Novak Djokovic was ousted from the Cincinnati Open in his first match since Wimbledon, losing 2-6, 6-4, 6-4 to Thiago Tirante of Argentina in the second round.

The 39-year-old struggled in punishing heat and humidity during the more than two-and-a-half-hour battle. Djokovic collapsed to his knees, vomited into his towel, and called for treatment, later revealing a health issue that has hampered him for many years. He took a medical timeout after a brutal 18-minute third game in the second set, where he saved four break points over nine deuces.

A trainer and doctor assisted him with assessments and ice towels. Djokovic refused to retire despite being visibly below his usual physical condition, having his blood pressure checked on court. This marked his return to play after losing to Jannik Sinner in the Wimbledon semifinals more than a month ago. Top-seeded Alexander Zverev, the French Open champion, also played a lengthy match, winning his opening contest against Cameron Norrie 3-6, 6-3, 6-3, which concluded at 2:15 am.

Zverev stated he needed to get a match rhythm and lacked confidence after Canada. Australians Alex de Minaur and Rinky Hijikata also advanced in the tournament.