Novak Djokovic's Quest for 2024 Title Delayed Due to Illness in Unexpected Defeat at Geneva Open

Novak Djokovic's quest for his first title of 2024 hit a roadblock at the Geneva Open semifinals on Friday. This tournament serves as a warmup for the French Open, set to start on Sunday.

During the match, the Serbian player faced difficulties due to a stomach problem. He ended up losing in three sets 6-4 0-6 6-1 to world No. 44 Tomas Machac.

Tennis - French Open - Roland Garros, Paris, France - June 4, 2022 Poland's Iga Swiatek kisses the trophy after winning the women's singles final match against Cori Gauff of the U.S. REUTERS/Yves Herman TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY

Iga Swiatek from Poland celebrates her victory by kissing the trophy after defeating Cori Gauff from the U.S. in the women's singles final match at the French Open in Roland Garros, Paris, France on June 4, 2022.

Yves Herman/Reuters

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During the match, the 24-time grand slam champion called for a medical timeout and had the doctor come onto the court at the end of the first set. TV cameras captured the world No.1 appearing out of sorts, with his hand visibly shaking as he took a drink from a bottle during a break.

After the match, Djokovic shared that he was feeling unwell with stomach issues and overall health. He mentioned that he had a rough night and the following day wasn't any better.

The 37-year-old expressed his concern about his performance leading up to the second grand slam of the year. He acknowledged that he has not made it to any finals this year, adding to his worries about his current form.

Djokovic admitted to reporters that he hasn't been performing well this year. He mentioned having a few good matches, but overall, he doesn't see himself as a favorite for his title defense at Roland Garros. Djokovic plans to approach each match one at a time and assess how far he can progress in the tournament.

Djokovic added: “I want to forget about [this match] and move on to Paris.”

Djokovic returns a ball to Machac during the Geneva Open semifinal.

Djokovic returns a ball to Machac during the Geneva Open semifinal.

Martial Trezzini/Keystone/AP

Djokovic called the doctor onto the court after the first set. This seemed to help him as he won the second set without losing a game.

Unfortunately, Djokovic faded in the third set, with Machac winning the last six games in a row.

According to Djokovic, the main accomplishment was getting back on the court and trying to find his rhythm, regardless of the end result.

He mentioned, "It was good to be able to play more than one match. I played three," highlighting the importance of getting more playing time. Djokovic also expressed the need to feel better physically, as it's challenging to enjoy playing tennis when dealing with physical discomfort. He emphasized the importance of being fit, ready, and prepared for the upcoming Roland Garros tournament.

He now has a 14-6 record in 2024 and will begin his 20th French Open campaign against Frenchman Pierre-Hugues Herbert.

Editor's P/S:

Novak Djokovic's struggles at the Geneva Open serve as a stark reminder of the challenges he faces in his pursuit of a first title in 2024. The Serbian star's stomach ailments and subpar form raise questions about his ability to defend his French Open crown. Despite his determination to bounce back, Djokovic's recent performances indicate that he may not be the favorite heading into Roland Garros.

The 37-year-old's admission that he hasn't been performing well this year is a testament to the competitive nature of the ATP Tour. With younger players emerging and challenging the established order, Djokovic must find a way to rediscover his best form if he wants to remain a force in the sport. The French Open will provide an opportunity for him to prove that he still has what it takes to be a grand slam champion, but he will need to improve his physical and mental state to contend for the title.