Yesterday, after World No.1 Novak Djokovic rounded off his excellent opener at the Rome Masters he was struck by an object while signing autographs from fans. Although the tournament officials released a report stating he was fine, the 36-year-old arrived for practice today wearing a bike helmet over a cap.
Djokovic was in good spirits, signing the autographs of fans like he did last night, as he looked unperturbed by the previous day’s incident. Reports claimed that after he was hit by an object he fell to the ground and was escorted off the court immediately for a quick check.
Meanwhile, the 24-time Grand Slam champion was never attacked while signing autographs. The unfortunate incident occurred when a bottle accidentally fell off from a man’s backpack in an attempt to get Djokovic’s autograph. The Italian Open organizers went on to release a statement on X stating that there was no cause for concern.
He underwent appropriate medication and has already left the Foro Italico to return to his hotel; his condition is not a cause for concern. The Management of the Italian Open stated
In the early hours of today, the Serbian star arrived at the Foro Italico with a bike helmet over a white cap signing tennis balls of fans, who were delighted to see him. Besides that, Djokovic began his Rome campaign on a good start, last night, beating French Corentin Moutet in the first round within an hour and 26 minutes.
Moutet began sensationally breaking Djokovic twice to take the first set lead 3-1 but that was all he did as the Serb went on to win the remaining five games to win 6-3. He controlled the second set leaving nothing for Moutet as he claimed a 6-3, 6-1 victory.
Novak Djokovic aiming for 1,100th tour-level win against Alejandro Tabilo
Novak Djokovic is on the brink of achieving a milestone of 1,100 tour-level wins in his career. The Serbian victory over Corentin Moutet was the 1,099th tour-level win of his career, the third highest by any player in the open era.
Though he is still searching for his first title of the season, he will be hoping to claim this feat tomorrow when he faces Alejandro Tabilo in the third round of the Rome Masters. He’s also a six-time Rome champion and will be aiming to increase the tally.
However, Djokovic has never played against Tabilo, and this will be their first match. It is worth noting that Tabilo beat Yannick Hanfmann in the second round.
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