Berrettini’s Triumph in Doha
In a thunderous clash in Doha, Matteo Berrettini shattered the glass ceiling by defeating Novak Djokovic for the first time in a fiery showdown. Djokovic, aiming for a strong comeback after an injury hiatus since the 2025 Australian Open, faced a tough draw with Berrettini as his first opponent. The Italian, a former Top 10 player plagued by injuries in recent years, was determined to reverse his lackluster season start of one win and three losses.
A Stellar Performance by Berrettini
Matteo Berrettini delivered a stellar performance on the court, showcasing his prowess on the surface against Djokovic, who appeared far from his peak form. The match unfolded with intense competition, particularly in the first set, where both players had their chances before Berrettini’s forehand prowess proved decisive in the tiebreak. Djokovic’s game visibly declined in the second set, allowing Berrettini to capitalize on his growing confidence and secure a straight-sets victory.
Djokovic’s Struggles
Novak Djokovic’s defeat marked the first time Berrettini had overcome the Serbian legend in their encounters, ending Djokovic’s record of four consecutive wins. Djokovic, who admittedly lacked practice due to his recovery efforts post-injury, has historically faced challenges in maintaining motivation in non-Grand Slam tournaments. His unexpected losses in secondary events over the years have raised questions about his drive and focus in these competitions.
During the post-match press conference, Djokovic acknowledged his opponent’s superiority, admitting, “I played without pain and I can’t make excuses. My opponent outplayed me in all aspects of the game and deserved the win. Clearly, I am far from my best level.” Djokovic’s candid assessment highlighted the significance of Berrettini’s victory and hinted at the Serbian’s ongoing quest to regain his competitive edge.
