Novak Djokovic faced Matteo Berrettini in the first round of the Qatar Open, and despite his best efforts, he was defeated 7-6 (4), 6-2. Djokovic, who was playing his first match since retiring from the Australian Open semi-final due to a hamstring injury, admitted that he did not feel any pain or discomfort during the match.
“I was outplayed by just a better player today,” Djokovic said. He acknowledged that he was not at his desired level and struggled to move the way he wanted to, but emphasized that he played without pain and there were no excuses. Berrettini delivered a masterclass performance, tactically outplaying Djokovic and serving exceptionally well.
The Italian’s victory was his first over Djokovic in five encounters and marked a significant milestone in his career. Djokovic praised Berrettini’s skills and determination, accepting the defeat with grace.
This is what he said: “I didn’t have any pain or discomfort in that sense. I was outplayed by just a better player today. Yes, I wasn’t at my desired level, and it could be that I’m still not moving the way I want to move, but, I mean, I played without pain, so there is no excuse in that.
He was just the better player. I think he played a master class match, to be honest, tactically, and served very well, so just a very deserved win from his side.”
Despite the loss, Djokovic remains optimistic about his future performances and is focused on improving his game. He also confirmed that Andy Murray would continue as his coach indefinitely. Djokovic’s humility and sportsmanship in the face of defeat have once again highlighted his character as a true champion.
Novak Djokovic in 2025
LWWWWWWWWW Now the world no.7, the Serbian played his last match on the 18th of February when he capitulated to world no.35 Matteo Berrettini 7-6(4) 6-2 in the 1st round in Doha (draw).
Until now, during this year Novak achieved a compiled 7-3 match record. Novak Djokovic’s best accomplishment of the year was getting to the semifinal at the Australian Open.
He is also scheduled to play in Indian Wells (BNP Paribas Open) on the 5th of March and () on the 29th of December.
