Novak Djokovic facing ‘new reality’ after early exit at Madrid Open

Novak Djokovic was left to contemplate a “new reality” after slumping to a third straight defeat as he was beaten by unseeded Italian Matteo Arnaldi at the Madrid Open.

The 24-time grand slam winner fell in straight sets, 6-3 6-4, in another disappointing display.

Djokovic’s latest loss came on the back of a defeat by Jakob Mensik in the Miami final, before bowing out of the Monte Carlo Masters against Alejandro Tabilo.

The 37-year-old’s current form means he does not hold out much hope of adding to his tally of major titles at the French Open, which begins next month.

He told the ATP website: “Kind of a new reality for me, I have to say.

“Trying to win a match or two, not really thinking about getting far in the tournament – it’s a completely different feeling from what I had in 20-plus years of professional tennis.

“It’s a challenge for me mentally to really face these kinds of sensations on the court, going out early now regularly in tournaments.”

Arnaldi, aged 24 and ranked 44 in the world, said: “He’s my idol, he’s always been.

Amazing Arnaldi from start to finish