Novak Djokovic cuts training short just hours after mixed doubles defeat ahead of US Open
ATPWednesday, 26 August 2026 at 06:30
Novak Djokovic has raised some questions just days before the start of the US Open after unexpectedly cutting short a training session against Zizou Bergs in New York. The Serbian spent only around 40 minutes on court before ending the practice while trailing 3-0 in the opening set, leaving the scheduled session unfinished.
The interruption came during one of Djokovic's final preparations for the year's last Grand Slam, where he will once again chase history. The 39-year-old is aiming for a record-extending 25th Grand Slam singles title and a fifth US Open crown, having last triumphed at Flushing Meadows in 2023.
Djokovic has already been active at the 2026 US Open through the revamped mixed doubles event, partnering world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka. The star pairing entered as the No. 1 seeds but suffered a surprise first-round defeat, losing to Katerina Siniakova and Henry Patten in the opening round.
That result brought Djokovic's mixed doubles campaign to an unexpectedly early end and allowed him to turn his attention toward singles. His shortened practice against Bergs, however, has now provided another talking point as he prepares to begin his bid for another major title.
Djokovic ends Bergs practice after 40 minutes
Djokovic's session against Bergs was scheduled as part of his final preparations ahead of the US Open, but the Serbian brought it to an early conclusion after the Belgian moved ahead 3-0. The practice lasted approximately 40 minutes, meaning the two players did not complete the opening set.
There has been no confirmation that Djokovic stopped because of an injury, so the early finish should not automatically be interpreted as a physical problem. Players regularly modify their practice schedules in the final days before a Grand Slam as they manage workload, intensity and recovery.
Djokovic stopped his practice after 40 minutes with Bergs, down 3-0 in their practice set
— The Big Three (@Big3Tennis) August 25, 2026
Nevertheless, the timing makes the development worth monitoring. Djokovic has had to carefully manage his physical condition during the latter stages of his career, particularly when preparing for the demanding two-week Grand Slam tournaments.
His next training sessions should offer a clearer indication of whether Tuesday's early finish was simply a planned adjustment or something that requires closer attention. For now, Djokovic remains on course to begin another US Open campaign with the opportunity to add a 25th Grand Slam singles title to his record.
Novak Djokovic's US Open 2025 Run
| Round | Opponent | Rank | Score |
| R128 | Learner Tien | 50 | 6-1, 7-6(3), 6-2 |
| R64 | Zachary Svajda | 145 | 6-7(5), 6-3, 6-3, 6-1 |
| R32 | Cameron Norrie | 35 | 6-4, 6-7(4), 6-2, 6-3 |
| R16 | Jan-Lennard Struff | 144 | 6-3, 6-3, 6-2 |
| QF | Taylor Fritz | 4 | 6-3, 7-5, 3-6, 6-4 |
| SF | Carlos Alcaraz | 2 | 4-6, 6-7(4), 2-6 |
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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