Novak Djokovic comfortably secured a victory at the Cincinnati Open, marking his return to singles action in the United States after a two-year absence due to Covid-related regulations. Djokovic managed to fend off two early break points before smoothly progressing in the match. The 23-time Grand Slam winner had been prevented from competing in the US due to Covid protocols, but the rules were eased for unvaccinated foreign travelers in May, allowing him to make his competitive comeback.
In his opening match, Djokovic took the first set 6-4 against Spain’s Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, who later retired due to a back problem. This triumph marked Djokovic’s first singles appearance in Cincinnati since 2019, as his previous involvement was limited to doubles play. He faced defeat in the doubles event earlier, partnering with fellow Serb Nikola Cacic against Jamie Murray of Britain and New Zealand’s Michael Venus.
Expressing his enthusiasm about being back on American soil, Djokovic mentioned his positive memories of the tournament, particularly his 2018 victory which was a significant achievement in his career. Despite several losses in previous finals, mostly to Roger Federer, Djokovic’s return to the Cincinnati Open after a hiatus of two years was filled with excitement to participate in major tennis events held in the United States.
Meanwhile, other matches unfolded at the Cincinnati Open. Australian qualifier Max Purcell secured his first-ever win over a top-10 ranked player, defeating third seed Casper Ruud in a three-set encounter. Purcell’s world ranking of 70 didn’t deter him from saving six out of seven break points to clinch a 6-4, 3-6, 6-4 victory. He earned a chance to face three-time Grand Slam winner Stan Wawrinka.
Former world number three Stan Wawrinka continued his resurgence with a convincing 6-3, 6-4 victory against American 16th seed Frances Tiafoe. Additionally, Serbian Dusan Lajovic managed to eliminate sixth seed Jannik Sinner with a score of 6-4, 7-6 (7-1). Russian third seed Daniil Medvedev advanced to the last 16 by defeating Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti 6-3, 6-2. Medvedev, the 2019 champion, is set to face Germany’s Alexander Zverev in the next round.
Zverev secured his spot in the next stage with a 7-5, 6-4 victory against Japan’s Yoshihito Nishioka. Greek fourth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas and American ninth seed Taylor Fritz also progressed in the tournament. Tsitsipas is scheduled to play against Poland’s Hubert Hurkacz, who eliminated Croatian defending champion Borna Coric.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Tennis
What is the Cincinnati Open?
The Cincinnati Open is a tennis tournament where players compete in various matches to win the championship.
Why was Novak Djokovic absent from the US tennis scene?
Novak Djokovic couldn’t compete in the US for two years due to Covid protocols, which restricted travel and participation.
How did Novak Djokovic perform in his return to the Cincinnati Open?
Novak Djokovic made a successful return, easing to victory in his first singles match after two years and winning the first set 6-4.
Who did Novak Djokovic face in his return match?
Novak Djokovic faced Spain’s Alejandro Davidovich Fokina in his return match at the Cincinnati Open.
Who is Max Purcell, and what was his notable achievement?
Max Purcell is an Australian qualifier. He stunned the tennis world by defeating third seed Casper Ruud in three sets, securing his first win over a top-10 ranked player.
What happened in Stan Wawrinka’s match?
Stan Wawrinka continued his resurgence by winning 6-3, 6-4 against American 16th seed Frances Tiafoe.
How did Daniil Medvedev perform in the Cincinnati Open?
Daniil Medvedev moved into the last 16 with a convincing 6-3, 6-2 victory over Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti.
Who will Daniil Medvedev face in the next round?
Daniil Medvedev is set to face Germany’s Alexander Zverev in the next round.
Which players progressed in the tournament apart from Djokovic and Medvedev?
Max Purcell, Stan Wawrinka, and Taylor Fritz also progressed to the next stage of the tournament.
What is the significance of Novak Djokovic’s return to the Cincinnati Open?
Novak Djokovic expressed excitement about returning to American soil for tennis events, as some of the sport’s major tournaments are held in the United States.
More about Tennis
- Cincinnati Open Official Website
- Novak Djokovic’s Profile
- Max Purcell’s Profile
- Stan Wawrinka’s Profile
- Daniil Medvedev’s Profile
4 comments
Djokovic’s slammin’ comeback at Cincinnati, no US for ages, covid mess.
Djokovic’s US return rocks, Covid pause no more, tennis energy’s back, can’t wait for more action!
Max Purcell shockin’ Ruud, Wawrinka rollin’, Medvedev on fire, love the tennis buzz!
novak’s back in action after covid stuff, wow! he won, yay!