Novak Djokovic suffered his first defeat on Australian soil in nearly six years today with concerns surrounding his right wrist starting to grow.
The Serbian world number one was beaten 6-4 6-4 by home favourite Alex De Minaur in the United Cup in Perth but it’s his fitness that will give him greater cause for concern just 11 days out from the season’s first major – the Australian Open in Melbourne, an event he has won 10 times.
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Djokovic received treatment on his wrist in his previous match, against Jiri Lehecka yesterday, and twice had to call for the trainer against De Minaur.
The defeat ended Djokovic’s 43-match winning run Down Under and was his first loss since losing to Hyeon Chung in the Australian Open quarter-finals in 2018.
For De Minaur, it was sweet revenge having mustered just five games against Djokovic in a humbling encounter at Melbourne Park 12 months ago.
He said: “It’s extra special. Novak is an unbelievable competitor and what he’s done for the sport is pretty special. It feels surreal, amazing, and I’m very happy to do it here in Perth and Australia.
“When you go up against Novak you have to go out and enjoy it and back yourself and no matter what keep fighting until the end. Today was my day and I’m happy that I was able to get the win.”
AUSTRALIA RISES AS ONE 🫶🇦🇺
This is your moment, @ALEXDEMINAUR! #UNITEDCUP PIC.TWITTER.COM/UIPOH84EZG
— United Cup (@UnitedCupTennis) JANUARY 3, 2024
The world number 12 added: “I’m here to prove a lot of people wrong and to try and get better.
“Ultimately I won’t be the biggest or the strongest. I will show I have variety in my game and I’m glad I could bring this level today.”
