Djokovic dumped out at Srpska Open Banja Luka in shock exit to Lajovic
ATPFriday, 21 April 2023 at 18:53
Big surprise at the ATP Banja Luka. Dusan Lajovic has eliminated the world No. 1 and big favourite to win the tournament, Novak Djokovic, in two sets: 4-6 6(6)-7.
Lajovic beat Djokovic at the Srpska Open to pull off the surprise of the tournament. The 32-year-old Serb beat his compatriot, who had already struggled in his previous match against Luca van Assche.
In the first set, Lajovic took an early lead. He managed to break Novak Djokovic's serve at 1-1 to take a 1-3 lead. The World No.1 would react later, getting a break at 3-4 to tie the match.
But Djokovic's joy was short-lived. His compatriot again became strong to break his opponent's serve again, and at 5-4 he lifted three break balls to take the set 4-6.
The second and final set was summed up in absolute quality.
Neither of the two Serbian tennis players managed to make a single break to the other. Djokovic missed two break points and Lajovic, five. As expected, the set went into a tie break, where Lajovic managed to seal three match points from Novak Djokovic, surprise the Banja Luka crowd, and win the set and match itself by 6(6)-7.
Samuel GillEditor-in-Chief
Samuel Gill is the Chief Content Officer (CCO) of TennisUpToDate.com, a role he has held since 2020. He is responsible for editorial governance across the platform, including setting content standards, overseeing accuracy and consistency, and guiding long-term editorial strategy. Since joining, he has contributed more than 10,000 articles and editorial pieces across the TennisUpToDate network, playing a central role in the daily operation and development of the site.
Based in Leicester, Samuel has a broad background in tennis media. In his current role, he works closely with editors and writers to ensure coverage meets clear journalistic standards, with particular attention to verification, consistency, and timely updates when new information becomes available.
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