Djokovic Falls to Arnaldi and Exits Early in Madrid

Another clay-court disappointment for Novak Djokovic. In his return to the Madrid tournament, which he hadn’t played since 2022, the Serbian was eliminated in his opening match by Matteo Arnaldi (6-3, 6-4).

Much like his poor performance against Tabilo in Monte-Carlo, Djokovic delivered a first set far below his usual standards, committing 20 unforced errors to just eight winners. His level improved in the second set, but Arnaldi proved more solid than the former world No. 1, securing the break in the seventh game (4-3).

From there, the Italian held firm against Djokovic’s late surge, saving two break points. After a change of ends and a final winning serve, he claimed one of the most prestigious victories of his career.

After struggling early in the European clay-court season (first-round exits in Monte-Carlo and Barcelona), Arnaldi now advances to the third round in Madrid, where he will face Damir Dzumhur.

As for Djokovic, his focus shifts to Rome following yet another premature defeat.