Novak Djokovic was eliminated in his opening match at the Cincinnati Open after struggling with heat and humidity, falling to Thiago Agustín Tirante in three sets.

Novak Djokovic suffered a 2-6, 6-4, 6-4 defeat to Argentina’s Thiago Agustín Tirante in his opening match at the Cincinnati Open. Despite taking the first set, the 39-year-old struggled significantly with the Ohioan heat and humidity, requiring medical attention during the second set. The loss marks another early exit for Djokovic at a non-grand slam event, as he continues to prioritize major tournaments and the Olympics at this stage of his career.

Physical Struggles and Match Dynamics

Djokovic began the match effectively, winning the opening set 6-2. However, his physical condition deteriorated early in the second set. While leading 2-1, he requested a doctor and physio, vomited into a towel, and had his blood pressure checked. Throughout the remainder of the match, he moved at a reduced pace, frequently bending over between points to catch his breath. Djokovic later attributed his performance to a recurring health issue that affects him specifically in hot and humid conditions, noting that the pressure of match play exacerbated the situation. Thiago Agustín Tirante, 25, capitalized on his opponent's physical decline. Utilizing his serve and a potent forehand, the world No. 50 maintained pressure on Djokovic to secure the biggest win of his career. Tirante now holds a 4-1 record against top-10 opponents.

Tournament Context and Future Outlook

This appearance in Cincinnati was only Djokovic's third non-grand slam tournament of the season, following outings at Indian Wells and Rome. He currently holds a 2-3 record in these events and has failed to reach the quarter-finals in any of them. Regarding his future participation in Cincinnati, Djokovic stated it is unlikely he will return, though he did not rule it out entirely. Djokovic had entered the tournament to gain match practice ahead of the US Open. He has maintained a focus on grand slam events, reaching the semi-final or better in six of his last seven appearances at that level.

Other Cincinnati Open Results

Elsewhere in the tournament, British player Arthur Fery secured his first-ever Masters 1000 main draw win by defeating James Duckworth 6-4, 2-6, 7-6 (4). Fery, the 32nd seed, recovered from a deficit in the final-set tie-break to advance to the third round. He is set to face fifth-seeded Alex de Minaur, who defeated qualifier Quentin Halys 1-6, 6-3, 7-6 (4) to progress.