Tennis Star Novak Djokovic Wins Comeback Match on US Ground, Cincinnati Competitor Forced to Drop Out
Novak Djokovic, a three-time Cincinnati champion, is back in the Western & Southern Open after a two-year absence. The Serbian tennis star, who turns 37 later this month, will face fellow 36-year-old Gael Monfils from France in the third round.
Djokovic's last appearance on American courts was at the 2021 US Open, where he faced defeat against Daniil Medvedev in the final. However, this year, he is back in the United States, thanks to the relaxation of vaccine requirements for non-US travelers.
Djokovic's participation in the Cincinnati tournament is significant, as he aims for a third title at the event. His previous victories came in 2018 and 2020, during its relocation to New York City. The 2023 final against Carlos Alcaraz was widely regarded as one of the greatest in Masters 1000 history.
Unfortunately, Djokovic's opponent for the round of 16, Davidovich Fokina, had to withdraw due to a lower back injury. This sets up an intriguing match against Monfils, a fellow veteran of the sport. Djokovic referred to their encounter as a "duel of the veterans."
Djokovic expressed contentment with his decision to remain unvaccinated, allowing him to return to US tournaments. He displayed empathy towards Davidovich Fokina, wishing him a swift recovery from his injury.
Historically, the Cincinnati Open has been both a prestigious title and an important build-up event in Djokovic's season’s campaign. His goals at the tournament typically involve using it as preparation to peak at the US Open, where he aims to continue extending his Grand Slam record. However, his withdrawal from the 2025 edition due to injury concerns suggests he is prioritizing recovery and the US Open over competing in Cincinnati this year.
As the tournament progresses, fans and tennis enthusiasts alike are eager to see if Djokovic can continue his impressive run in Cincinnati and potentially add another title to his impressive collection.
Novak Djokovic, after expressing contentment with his unvaccinated status, will encounter fellow sports veteran Gael Monfils in a noteworthy tennis match, reminiscent of a "duel of the veterans." Despite his focus on the US Open, Djokovic's aim to claim a third title in the Cincinnati Open still stands, given his past successes in the event, which include victories in 2018, 2020, and notably, a 2023 final that was one of the greatest in Masters 1000 history.
