Djokovic secures spot in third round as Davidovich Fokina withdraws in Cincinnati Open

Thursday, 17 August 2023 at 02:25

Novak Djokovic advanced to the third round after the withdrawal of Alejandro Davidovich Fokina at the Western & Southern Open.

World No. 2 returned to play a match exactly one month after his defeat in the Wimbledon final against Carlos Alcaraz. After withdrawing from the Canadian Open due to muscle fatigue, seeking rest before the US Open, Djokovic arrived in Cincinnati for his sole preparation tournament ahead of the fourth Grand Slam of the year.

Davidovich Fokina reached the semifinals of Cincinnati last week but fell to Alex de Minaur. Nevertheless, he accumulated a series of victories over strong opponents like J.J. Wolf, Alexander Zverev, Casper Ruud, and Mackenzie McDonald.

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This week, he advanced through the first round against Argentine Tomás Etcheverry and faced Djokovic, with whom he held a 2-1 head-to-head advantage, all matches on clay.

In the opening set, both players exhibited strong play to keep the score level in the early games. After reaching 4-3, Davidovich Fokina experienced discomfort and went to the locker room for treatment by the physiotherapist.

Upon his return, Djokovic secured a break against the visibly ailing Spaniard, who made gestures while serving. Djokovic had a favorable service game to claim the set, but Davidovich's resistance provided hope as he broke back.

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Encountering difficulties in his service game again, Davidovich Fokina conceded the set to Djokovic with a score of 6-4. The Spaniard started the second set but requested retirement after the first game, unable to continue the match against the 23-time Grand Slam champion.

Djokovic advanced to the third round and will face 36-year-old Frenchman Gael Monfils, who is experiencing a resurgence since returning to the ATP tour. This week, Monfils defeated 13th seed Cameron Norrie and then dispatched Alex de Minaur in the second round. Monfils has an unfavorable head-to-head record against Djokovic, with a 0-18 record, their last meeting being in the 2022 Madrid Open.

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Novak Djokovic advances in Cincinnati after Davidovich Fokina retires due to injury. Wishing you a speedy recovery! @alexdavidovich1 💙 @CincyTennis | #CincyTennis

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12:24 AM · Aug 17, 2023

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Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist

Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.

His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.

In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.

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