“It’s my decision to still perform”: Novak Djokovic accepts risks of competing while not fully fit after Rome upset

Novak Djokovic referred to his defeat in his debut at the Rome Open, where he was surprised by Dino Prizmic 6-2, 2-6, 4-6. The 24-time Grand Slam champion struggled with fatigue and stomach issues from the second set onwards, and ultimately fell after a strong performance from the 20-year-old Croatian.

Nole had started well, winning four games in a row to close out the first set in 41 minutes. It looked like a straightforward day for the 38-year-old, but he was unable to maintain his level after encountering physical difficulties in the second set.

However, Djokovic chose not to refer to the physical issues — apparently stomach problems — in his post-match press conference. “I hope you understand, I will not talk about that, but I want to congratulate Dino, a deserving winner today,” the Serbian began his press conference.

“I came in to have a match or more, fortunately only a match, but it's alright. I'm pleased at least that I fought till the end, and I want to thank the crowd. It was incredible once again, the support and love that I've been getting is something I don't take for granted.”

Djokovic was playing his first match since his exit in the fourth round of Indian Wells, and only his third tournament of the year. After two months away from competition and recent physical problems, Nole admitted he was not arriving in Rome with strong expectations of fighting for the title, but rather looking to gain rhythm ahead of Roland Garros.

“It's not an ideal preparation, to be honest,” comentó el former world No. 1. “I don't recall the last time in the last couple of years that I had a preparation where I didn't have any physical issues or health issues coming into a tournament. It's always something.”

The Serbian has been dealing with constant physical problems over the last couple of years, which have repeatedly affected his preparation for major tournaments.

“It's kind of a new reality that I have to deal with. It is frustrating, but at the same time it's my decision to still perform in that kind of state and conditions, and it is what it is.”

This was the second meeting between Djokovic and Prizmic, who had previously faced each other in the first round of the 2024 Australian Open. On that occasion, the Croatian — then just 18 — managed to take a set from the first seed and 10-time Australian Open champion, leaving a strong impression regarding his future.

Now, at 20 years old, he achieved one of the biggest wins of his career — his first against a top-5 opponent — and notably against his idol, with Djokovic also addressing Prizmic at the net.

“I told him at the net that his forehand improved a lot, and whatever he's been doing with his team is working well. He should just keep going,” Novak Djokovic said. “I thought also two, two and a half years ago when we played in Australia, first round, that he possesses a lot of talent and potential."

"Hopefully he can stay healthy because I know he struggled a lot with injuries. If things come together, he can really go far in the rankings."

“He's a great competitor, great fighter, a great kid. I've known him for some years and we speak the same language, so I always wish him all the best. Today he definitely performed at a very high level.”

Prizmic secured his place in the third round of the Rome Open — achieving back-to-back third rounds in Masters 1000 events, something he also did in Madrid two weeks ago and had not previously achieved in his career. For now, the Croatian guarantees his best ranking as No. 78 and will look for a first-ever Round of 16 appearance against France’s Ugo Humbert.