In 2024, Novak Djokovic said facing Dino Prizmic in the opening round of the Australian Open was like playing against himself in a mirror. Djokovic then emerged victorious in four sets. But two years later, Prizmic turned around and eliminated the Serb from the 2026 Italian Open.
On Friday, Djokovic suffered a shock early exit in Rome after losing to the Croatian qualifier in the second round. The 24-time Grand Slam champion lost 6-2, 2-6, 4-6 in his opening match at the tournament, marking one of the most disappointing defeats of his 2026 season.
Djokovic entered the Italian Open as the third seed and received a first-round bye, meaning his clash with 20-year-old Prizmic was technically his opening match of the tournament.
The defeat was particularly surprising given Djokovic’s remarkable record in Rome, where he has won six titles and rarely struggled in the first rounds. In fact, it was the first time Djokovic had lost his opening match at the Italian Open.
Dino Prizmic hits a huge backhand down the line against Novak Djokovic in Rome.
To produce amazing things against your biggest tennis hero.
pic.twitter.com/oC5EZ2p4EW— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) May 8, 2026
PRIZMIC REFLECTS BACK
The Serbian started the match strongly and looked in complete control throughout the opening set. Djokovic combined his trademark baseline consistency with fine drop shots and crisp returns to take the first set 6-2. Prizmic committed 13 unforced errors in the opener and initially seemed overwhelmed by the opportunity.
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However, the pace changed dramatically in the second set. Prizmic began hitting the ball with much more confidence, repeatedly testing Djokovic’s movement with heavy shots.
At the same time, Djokovic’s level dropped significantly. The Serbian looked physically uncomfortable and even threw up on the court during the match. Djokovic performed poorly after the first set and struggled with movement.
Prizmic took full advantage of Djokovic’s struggles, winning four consecutive games early in the second set before finally leveling the match. The Croatian, who already made an impression in Madrid by defeating world number six Ben Shelton, continued to play fearless tennis.
Djokovic attempted a comeback in the third set, but his usually reliable court game looked unusually hesitant. Prizmic stayed composed in the crucial moments and eventually sealed the biggest victory of his young career. The Croatian arrived in Rome with a career-high 79 and has recorded two wins over Top-10 players in recent weeks.
CONCERNS BEFORE THE FRENCH OPEN
The defeat reignited concerns about Djokovic’s fitness ahead of the French Open. The Serb has not played since Indian Wells in March after battling a shoulder injury that saw him miss tournaments in Miami, Monte Carlo and Madrid.
At 38, Djokovic is still chasing a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title, but his lack of match fitness and recurring physical problems have made his preparations increasingly difficult. With younger stars like Jannik Sinner dominating the ATP Tour, Djokovic now faces increasing pressure to rediscover his best form before Roland Garros begins later this month.
– The end
Issued by:
sabyasachi chowdhury
Published on:
09 May 2026 0:22 IST
