Novak Djokovic stunned by Alejandro Davidovich Fokina in return at Monte Carlo after long break

Novak Djokovic’s preparations for the defence of his French Open title suffered a shock blow as his long-awaited return to competitive action ended in a round two defeat to Alejandro Davidovich Fokina in Monte Carlo. The world number one looked rusty and was far from his best as he succumbed to a 3-6 7-6 (5) 1-6 defeat in only his fourth match of 2022 and his first since February 24. Ad/> Djokovic’s lack of tennis due to his vaccination status and the Covid-19 regulations that saw him miss the Australian Open, Indian Wells and Miami, were clear for all to see as he struggled to find rhythm and consistency throughout an unpredictable encounter that was hindered by windy conditions.

Monte Carlo Masters'I want to face Djokovic' — Alcaraz relishing chance to face world number oneYESTERDAY AT 10:43 The king of stupidity – Marcelo Rios on Djokovic’s vaccine stance Alcaraz: I want to face Djokovic Mouratoglou on why he believes Djokovic is the best on clay It was ultimately a day to forget for the 20-time Grand Slam champion but credit must go to Davidovich Fokina, who claimed the biggest scalp of his career to-date with his previous best being at this event last year over the then world number 10 Matteo Berrettini. /> Speaking on-court following his shock victory, Davidovich Fokina said: «This win is so special for me because I grew up watching Nole. I’m a big fan of his.

I look up to him at every tournament and in every match he plays, so I need to enjoy every moment of the win against him as the number one (in the world) in Monte Carlo and in front of these people. I’m so happy. »I started very well and I knew Nole didn’t have the confidence because he hasn’t played a lot.