Novak Djokovic issued a heartfelt apology after crashing out in the opening round of the Monte-Carlo Masters. The 24-time Grand Slam champion lost 6-3, 6-4 to Chilean Alejandro Tabilo in a disappointing performance that left the Serbian star visibly dejected.
Speaking in a brief 141-word press conference, Djokovic didn’t hold back on his emotions. “It was actually more like the worst day,” he said. “Just horrible. Horrible feeling to play this way, and just sorry for all the people that have to witness this.”
Djokovic, now ranked world No. 5, had downplayed his chances ahead of the tournament due to a quick turnaround after reaching the Miami Open final. Still, he admitted he didn’t expect to play “this bad.”
The 37-year-old struggled throughout the match, racking up 29 unforced errors and failing to find rhythm on his first serve. The defeat marks his first loss on clay since the 2024 Italian Open.
Tabilo now improves to a 2-0 record against Djokovic.
Despite the disappointment, Djokovic remains focused on the clay season’s biggest prize. “Roland Garros. That’s it,” he said with a smile, shifting attention to the French Open.
This loss follows early exits in Doha and Indian Wells, though he reached the final in Miami. Djokovic recently admitted that staying motivated has become more difficult. “When you start to play less good, start to lose early in the tournament, that’s when more questions appear… conversations of whether you should keep going.”
His next expected appearance is at the Madrid Open, where he’ll be joined by coach Andy Murray.
