Novak Djokovic, the world’s number one tennis player, found himself in an unexpected and rather bizarre situation during the Italian Open. After securing a victory over France’s Corentin Moutet, Djokovic was signing autographs for fans when an incident occurred that left everyone stunned.
The Incident
A video circulating on social media captured the moment when Djokovic was struck on the head by a water bottle. The object came from the stands, and the Serbian star fell to the floor in response. Tournament organizers quickly clarified that the hard bottle had accidentally fallen out of someone’s bag in the crowd. This was not a deliberate act but rather an unfortunate accident.
Djokovic’s Reaction
The 24-time Grand Slam champion remained on the ground for a while, visibly shaken by the unexpected blow. Security personnel helped him out of the arena in Rome. Fortunately, Djokovic’s condition was not a cause for concern, and he underwent necessary checks before leaving to return to his hotel.
Fan Autographs Gone Awry
Additional footage emerged, showing a fan leaning over to get an autograph. The water bottle slipped out of the fan’s rucksack, hitting Djokovic squarely on the top of his head. It was a surreal moment—one that highlighted the unpredictability of live sports events.
Oh my god Djokovic got hit by a bottle while leaving the court in Rome.
Hoping all is good! pic.twitter.com/YAQPySrukI
— José Morgado (@josemorgado) May 10, 2024
The tournament released a video showing that Novak Djokovic was hit on the head by accident.
The bottle slipped from a fan’s backpack.
Just a very unfortunate, unlucky situation. ❤️🩹
(via @InteBNLdItalia)
pic.twitter.com/5LIzzWZpMS— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) May 10, 2024
The Aftermath
Despite the incident, Djokovic is determined to continue competing. His next opponent is Chile’s Alejandro Tabilo, and fans are eager to see how he’ll fare after this unusual encounter.
Djokovic in Rome, ranking, and results in 2024
WWWWLLLWWW Currently ranked no.1, the Serbian has achieved an overall 12-4 win-loss record in 2024. Djokovic is playing at the moment in Rome where he toppled the world no.83 Corentin Moutet 6-3 6-1.
Novak Djokovic will play the world no.32 Alejandro Tabilo in the 3rd round. They have never played each other until now on the main tour.
Djokovic won 98 titles in his career: 52 on hard courts, 19 on clay courts, 19 on indoor courts and 8 on grass courts. (See the list of his titles)
Djokovic will compete next at the French Open (French Open). He will start the tournament from the main draw that will commence on the 26th of May.
