Serbian tennis legend Novak Djokovic was at the receiving end of a mishap after his first match at the 2024 Italian Open. As the 36-year-old was signing autographs for fans after his win over Corentin Moutet, a metal water bottle fell on his head leaving Djokovic injured. The tennis ace was down on his knees after the incident.
Djokovic was taken to a nearby hospital as he looked in a lot of pain. Meanwhile, such a serious injury taking place at the stadium raised concerns over the security of players. Fans even started to speculate if it was a deliberate attempt to injure Djokovic.
However, the tournament came up with a clarification, revealing that it was just an accident and it was not a cause for concern. The Italian Open released a statement and revealed that the player had been given the necessary medications and he had been sent to the hotel.
Novak Djokovic was accidentally hit on the head by a water bottle while leaving the Central Court at the end of his match while signing autographs for spectators. He has been subjected to the necessary medications, he has already left the Foro Italico to return to the hotel, his condition does not cause concern. A statement from the Italian Open read.
Novak Djokovic starts off with a dominant win
While his accident took away all the attention, Novak Djokovic registered a comfortable victory in his first match at the Masters tournament. The Serbian ace beat his opponent in straight sets of 6-3, 6-1. Djokovic enjoyed his dominance and looked in good rhythm despite missing out on all the action in Madrid.
He seems to be preparing well for the second Grand Slam tournament of the season. Djokovic has already cleared his intentions. The 24-time Grand Slam champion has said that he wants to enter the 2024 French Open as a title contender and he is working hard to achieve his best level. He also talked about eyeing the Paris Olympics, the Wimbledon, and the US Open.
I'm yet to find the highest level of tennis. Obviously, the block of Roland-Garros, Wimbledon, Olympics and US Open is the most important of the year for me. That's the priority and what I'm setting my form for. Hopefully, I can find that desired level of tennis this week; Roland-Garros is definitely where I want to arrive ready to fight for a title. Novak Djokovic said to Sky Sports.
Notably, the Serbian has not won a title yet in the 2024 season. Djokovic has managed two semifinal qualifications- the Australian Open and the Monte Carlo Masters. Playing his second tournament on clay this season, the 36-year-old would be hoping to go the distance, and with no Carlos Alcaraz or Jannik Sinner, chances are high that Djokovic will win the title in Rome.
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