Djokovic calls physio in Cincinnati last as Serb struggles in 35-degree warmth

Aug 20, 2023 at 11:52 PM
Djokovic calls physio in Cincinnati last as Serb struggles in 35-degree warmth

Novak Djokovic referred to as the physio to courtroom as he grappled with the new situations throughout the last in Cincinnati towards Carlos Alcaraz. The 36-year-old had been visibly struggling throughout the opening set however solely referred to as for assist after taking place within the second. The last marked Djokovic’s first day session match of the week as temperatures reached 35 levels.

Djokovic dropped an in depth first set to Alcaraz after taking an early break lead as he may very well be seen getting more and more crimson and sweaty within the brutal situations. Temperatures reached 35 levels in Cincinnati throughout the match, with forecasts saying it felt like 40 levels.

The world No 2 may very well be seen shouting in direction of his group for a creatine drink throughout the hour-long opening set and took an off-court break after shedding it 7-5. But he continued to wrestle, hitting two double faults to get damaged at 1-2 within the second set. Djokovic then referred to as the physio to courtroom and had his pulse checked as he buried his face in an ice towel.

The Serb was given some medication however did not take a medical day out, resuming the match as Alcaraz prolonged his result in 3-1. “If Novak is not feeling well, Carlos has got so much experience being so young that he is that I don’t think there is really any way back here for Novak unless he starts to feel better,” Greg Rusedski stated on commentary for Prime Video.

“We see the physio coming on court, we’ll see what he can do for Novak because Novak looks like he is struggling physically and also the doctor is on court as well so this isn’t a good sign for the Serb, he might give him something to take to manage the temperature. They’re taking his blood pressure right now, that’s how poorly Novak is feeling.”

Djokovic continued taking part in on the conclusion of the changeover and managed to arrange break-back level however could not convert it. The medication appeared to start out kicking in because the second set went on and the 36-year-old discovered his method again into it, breaking to attract stage at 4-4.