The 22-time Grand Slam winner was removed from proud of the British primary and was seen staring down his opponent on a number of events, suggesting all will not be effectively within the Djokovic camp.

Djokovic was additionally handled for an unknown harm drawback throughout that match and he gave a tetchy response when quizzed on the matter afterwards, refusing to disclose on what the problem was. It didn't seem to hamper him in opposition to Rune, although, who was merely the higher participant on the day. Although Djokovic did name a medical timeout through the second set and was seen taking a capsule given to him by one of many physios earlier than occurring to win the set.

With Djokovic crashing out and Rafael Nadal lacking the event resulting from harm, it is going to be the primary time in 19 years that the Rome singles remaining is contested with out one of many remaining 'Big Three' members being concerned.

After seeing off Djokovic, Rune faces Norwegian star Casper Ruud within the semi-final, with a mouthwatering encounter between Daniil Medvedev and Stefanos Tsitsipas doable for the opposite last-four tie because the pair negotiate their quarter-final matches on Thursday.