Djokovic struggles with illness in Cincinnati, loses to Thiago Tirante
Djokovic retired from neither match nor tournament but displayed concerning symptoms — fell to his knees, vomited and told medical staff "My legs are giving out."
Novak Djokovic left the Cincinnati Masters opener visibly weakened and dropped a surprise 1–2 defeat to Argentina's Thiago Tirante on August 15, 2026, in a match that lasted nearly three hours.
The top-ranked player looked comfortable early and took the first set 6–2, but Tirante rallied to win the second 6–4 and closed out the decider 6–4. The result came in what was billed as Djokovic's final tune-up before the US Open.
During the second half of the match Djokovic twice showed clear physical distress: he fell to his knees, vomited on court and called out, "My legs are giving out." Medical staff attended him immediately and he was able to continue, but the signs of fatigue remained.
Match details and reaction
Players and onlookers captured the episode on phones and social media. One fan account posted: "Novak Djokovic is vomiting in Cincinnati. 😩 pic.twitter.com/ra2PovCrYk" (Danny @DjokovicFan_). The image and clips circulated widely after the 1/32 final.
Tirante earned praise for maintaining his level under the pressure of facing the sport's most decorated player, while questions will follow Djokovic about his fitness and preparation for Flushing Meadows.
Djokovic now heads into the next days with an unexpected defeat and medical concerns to assess before the US Open begins.
Photo: press material from the event
