Novak Djokovic opened up about a lingering health problem that has been affecting his performance, after he suffered an unexpected loss in the second round of the Cincinnati Open. The 39‑year‑old Serbian star explained that the combination of high temperature and humidity in Ohio aggravated his condition, which became evident as he struggled to keep pace in a 6‑2, 4‑6, 4‑6 defeat to Argentina’s world No. 50, Thiago Agustín Tirante.
This match marked Djokovic’s first competitive appearance since his semi‑final loss to Jannik Sinner at Wimbledon in July. Midway through the second set, the multiple Grand Slam champion dropped to his hands and knees and requested a medical timeout, a clear sign that something beyond ordinary fatigue was at play. In the post‑match press conference, Djokovic praised his opponent, saying, "Congratulations to my opponent. It was certainly not an enjoyable match for me.
The way I felt… It’s not the first time, and I doubt it will be the last, but that’s how it is." He went on to describe the health issue as a chronic condition that has been bothering him for several years. "It’s a health‑related condition that has been causing me trouble for the past couple of years," he said.
"It creates a lot of problems, especially when the weather is humid and hot. I expected it could happen, but nerves and other factors can make it worse, and that’s exactly what happened today." Djokovic’s candid admission sheds light on the physical challenges elite athletes face, especially when external conditions amplify underlying medical concerns. While the exact nature of the condition was not disclosed, the player indicated that it has been a recurring obstacle, influencing his preparation and performance during the most demanding parts of the season. The Cincinnati Open, known for its fast hard courts and often sweltering midsummer climate, has historically been a testing ground for players’ endurance.
For Djokovic, who has previously won the tournament three times, the experience this year was a stark reminder that even the most seasoned competitors can be vulnerable to health setbacks. Beyond the immediate disappointment, the loss raises questions about Djokovic’s schedule for the remainder of the 2026 season. When asked whether he plans to return to Cincinnati next year, the Serbian champion replied, "I certainly hope so, but it looks more likely not, unfortunately. But let’s see what the future brings." His response suggests that while he would like to compete again, the uncertainty surrounding his condition may force him to reconsider his participation in events that present similar environmental challenges.
The broader tennis community has taken note of Djokovic’s situation. Analysts point out that managing chronic health issues is a critical component of a player’s longevity, especially as the sport’s calendar becomes increasingly demanding.
The ATP and WTA Tours have both emphasized the importance of player welfare, offering medical support and flexible scheduling where possible. Djokovic’s experience may prompt further discussion about how tournament organizers can mitigate extreme weather impacts, perhaps by adjusting match times or providing additional cooling measures. For fans eager to follow the rest of the tennis season, there are plenty of upcoming events to watch.
Today’s tennis scores and forthcoming matches are available across multiple platforms, with live coverage on Sky Sports and streaming options through NOW. The US Open, set to begin on August 30, will also be broadcast live on Sky Sports, offering another opportunity to see top players in action. In summary, Novak Djokovic’s recent defeat in Cincinnati was more than a simple upset; it highlighted a persistent health issue that has been affecting him for years, especially under hot and humid conditions. While he remains hopeful about future participation, the uncertainty surrounding his condition may influence his tournament choices moving forward.
Tennis enthusiasts can stay updated on scores, match schedules, and live streaming options, ensuring they don’t miss any of the sport’s exciting moments throughout the remainder of the season.