Tennis surprise

Failure in 2 sets! Djokovic eliminated in Rome

Novak Djokovic is eliminated in Rome.(Bild: AFP/APA/Tiziana FABI)

Novak Djokovic was surprisingly eliminated in the third round of the Masters 1000 tournament in Rome on Sunday. After a weak performance, the world number one lost 2:6, 3:6 to Chile's Alejandro Tabilo after just 67 minutes and thus missed out on the 1,100th win of his career. 

For Djokovic, who had already triumphed six times in Rome, this is a further setback in his preparations for the French Open, which begins in two weeks' time.

Two days after being hit on the head by a bottle that fell out of a rucksack, the "Djoker" was far from his top form ahead of the second Grand Slam tournament of the year. The 36-year-old made a series of easy mistakes. Significantly, Djokovic ended the match after just 67 minutes with a double fault.

"Worrying"
After the defeat, Djokovic announced that he would have his head examined. "It was as if a completely different player had been in my place today. No rhythm, no pace, no balance on a shot," said Djokovic. "It's a bit worrying." Immediately after the accident, Djokovic had written on social media that he was fine and was resting in the hotel.

The 24-time major winner, who turns 37 on May 22, has still not won a tournament this year following his semi-final exit in Monte Carlo. He even received a few whistles at his exit in Rome.