Novak Djokovic won his first singles match in the United States since 2021, defeating Alejandro Davidovich Fokina in the Western & Southern Open on Wednesday after the Spaniard quit early in the second set due to a lower back ailment.
Djokovic won the first set 6-4, but two games into the second set, Davidovich Fokina stooped over in agony following his return, and the play was called off after 46 minutes.
“Kind of mixed emotions tonight,” remarked Djokovic. “I adore Alejandro. Off the court, they get along great. While in Spain, we trained together. He said he had a lower back problem that started yesterday. It’s regrettable.”
Djokovic, 36, lost in doubles on his comeback to the nation on Tuesday after skipping events due to COVID-19 vaccine restrictions.
It’s his first visit to Cincinnati since 2019. Because of the COVID-19 epidemic, the 2020 Western & Southern Open was held in New York.
It was Djokovic’s first singles match since losing in the Wimbledon final to Carlos Alcaraz. Djokovic, whose practice sessions have been packed with spectators, might collide with Alcaraz at the US Open warmup.
“Obviously, competing for one set is better than not playing or losing,” remarked Djokovic. “I’ll try again tomorrow.” “I’m sort of shaking off the rust.”
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Djokovic, the winner of a men’s-record 23 Grand Slam singles championships, will meet Frenchman Gael Monfils on Thursday, who is 0-18 against him in his career. Earlier in the day, Monfils defeated Alex de Minaur in straight sets.
“He’s an amazing guy, whom I truly respect and like a lot as a person,” said Djokovic of Monfils. “He brings so much joy and entertainment to the fans.” He’s one of the most captivating players we’ve had on tour in the last two decades, and he’s better than ever.”
