Novak Djokovic stunned in 3rd round at Monte Carlo Masters by Lorenzo MusettiStruggling not to cry, says Italian

By India Today Sports DeskNovak Djokovic’s clay-court action has gotten off to a poor start as the World No.1 lost in the third round of Monte Carlo Masters to 21-year-old Lorenzo Musetti of Italy on Thursday, April 13. Djokovic’s serve ran into problems on a wet and windy day at Court Rainier III as the Serb gave up the first set advantage to lose to the lower-ranked Musetti 4-6, 7-5, 6-4.

Novak Djokovic had said after his shaky win over Ivan Gakhov in the second round that he was not still at his peak form after having missed competitive action due to his absence from Miami and Indian Wells Masters. Djokovic, who won the Australian Open in January, was not allowed entry to the United States as he was not vaccinated against Covid-19.

Djokovic was broken as many as 8 times en route to the three-set loss as the Serb saved 3 match points. However, he was not able to deny Musetti anymore in the match that extended to 2 hours and 54 minutes with rain breaks as well.

Djokovic’s bid for a record-extending 39th Masters title crown was on course as he was leading a set and 4-2. However, unforced errors crept in as he lost the second set and allowed Musetti, who displayed a strong game from the baseline to turn the tide and script his second win over a top-5 opponent.

EMOTIONAL MUSETTI RELISHES BIG SCALP

Musetti, who will rise to No. 17 in the ATP rankings if he beats compatriot Jannik Sinner in an all-Italian quarter-final, was emotional as he looked at his box in disbelief after the winner was hit in Monte Carlo.

“I am struggling not to cry. It is an emotional win because it was a really long match. Three-hour match and suspended by rain.

“It was not easy conditions because it was a little bit windy and cold. Not like we used to play in recent days. I am really proud of myself and I can see on the screen. I am struggling not to cry because it is a dream for me,” Musetti said.

Djokovic, who is still one of the main contenders for Roland Garros title, will be keen on putting a better show in Paris and Madrid before he begins his bid for a 3rd title at the French Open.