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Dino Prizmic Stuns Novak Djokovic in Italian Open Second-Round Upset

Posted : 09 May 2026

Novak Djokovic suffered a surprise defeat on his return to competition at the Italian Open, falling in the second round to qualifier Dino Prizmic in a three-set battle in Rome. The world number four had been playing his first match since March and his first on clay this season after recovering from a shoulder injury.

The six-time Rome champion began strongly, taking the opening set comfortably. However, signs of discomfort and lack of match sharpness became apparent in the second set, where Prizmic seized control with aggressive baseline play and consistent pressure.

The 20-year-old Croatian, who has long admired Djokovic, produced a fearless performance, eventually overcoming the Serbian star 2-6 6-2 6-4. After the match, Prizmic paid tribute by writing “Nole it was a pleasure” on the camera lens.

Djokovic, who had received a first-round bye, admitted after the match that he will not compete again before the French Open begins on 24 May. He acknowledged he is still not at the level required to compete for titles, citing ongoing physical setbacks in recent months.

The Serbian great, who will turn 39 during the French Open, said he has struggled to prepare without injury issues and described it as a “new reality” he must adapt to. Despite this, he remains focused on chasing a record 25th Grand Slam title in Paris.

Prizmic, who had also defeated world number six Ben Shelton in Madrid earlier this season, maintained composure throughout the deciding set. He broke Djokovic mid-set and held firm under pressure, sealing the biggest win of his young career with an ace.

Djokovic had beaten Prizmic in their previous meeting at the Australian Open, where he compared the young player’s style to his own. However, this time it was Prizmic who dictated the crucial rallies, earning a landmark victory in Rome.

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