Novak Djokovic stops practice after just three games as New York heat puts body under spotlight

Friday, 28 August 2026 at 00:30

Novak Djokovic has raised fresh questions over his US Open preparations after cutting short a practice session with Zizou Bergs after just three games on Tuesday. According to Tennis World USA, the 39-year-old decided not to continue as the session was being played under intense New York sunshine, adding another concern around his ability to handle the conditions at Flushing Meadows.

The timing is particularly notable given what happened to Djokovic in Cincinnati. The Serbian struggled physically in the extreme heat and humidity during his opening-round defeat to Thiago Agustin Tirante, appearing to be affected by the conditions as he suffered a surprise loss. With the US Open only days away, another early stoppage because of the heat will inevitably attract attention.

Djokovic remains one of the leading contenders for the title despite playing a reduced schedule. With Jannik Sinner absent and defending champion Carlos Alcaraz returning after a lengthy injury layoff, the 24-time Grand Slam champion has another opportunity to chase a 25th major title.

Djokovic had already been active in New York on Tuesday, partnering Aryna Sabalenka in the US Open mixed doubles. The pair lost to Katerina Siniakova and Henry Patten 1-4, 4-2, 10-2 after wasting a significant advantage in the match tiebreak. He then returned to his singles preparations, but his session with Bergs ended after only three games.

Heat could become Djokovic's biggest challenge

There is no indication that Djokovic stopped the practice because of an injury, with the conditions appearing to be the reason for the early finish. Nevertheless, the situation is worth monitoring because New York's combination of heat and humidity has already caused him problems this summer.

The Serbian will benefit from evening scheduling at times, and his first-round match is set to be played at night. However, he will not be able to avoid daytime conditions indefinitely if he advances through the draw.

Novak's #Djokovic practice day 2 at USO 2026. He's still struggling as you can see how many net errors he made in the clips🤦
He halted the practice set against Zizou when 0-3 down, not sure if Novak got broken twice (I think so🙄) but obviously both his serve and return are off. pic.twitter.com/21lHtE4IV4
— NovakAnalysis (@NovakAnalysis) August 26, 2026

That could become particularly important in the second week. A Grand Slam campaign requires seven victories, and matches can last several hours, placing a significant physical burden on a player who is now 39.

Djokovic's experience remains one of his biggest advantages. He knows how to manage his energy, shorten points when necessary and navigate the demands of a two-week major better than almost anyone. But his Cincinnati defeat showed that the weather can still become a genuine problem.

With Sinner out and uncertainty surrounding Alcaraz, Djokovic has a major opportunity in New York. The question is whether the heat and humidity will allow him to take it.

Novak Djokovic's 2025 US Open run

Round	Rival	Rival Rk.	Result
R1	Learner Tien	50	6-1, 7-6(3), 6-2
R2	Zachary Svajda	145	6-7(5), 6-3, 6-3, 6-1
R3	Cameron Norrie	35	6-4, 6-7(4), 6-2, 6-3
R4	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	L 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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