Djokovic falls in Cincinnati Masters opener due to heat

Novak Djokovic's campaign at the ATP-WTA Cincinnati Masters came to an abrupt end Saturday as he succumbed to the challenging heat and humidity, falling in his opening match to unseeded Argentine Thiago Tirante. The 24-time Grand Slam champion struggled visibly throughout the contest, particularly in the second set.

Tirante advanced to the third round with a 2-6, 6-4, 6-4 victory. Djokovic, after taking the first set, appeared to hit a wall in the second. He engaged in a grueling 18-minute game, saving four break points over nine deuces, but the effort seemed to take its toll.

Between points, Djokovic was observed doubling over and even dropping to his hands and knees, clearly battling the conditions. He took a medical timeout after the taxing second-set game, receiving attention from medical staff and ice towels. Despite these efforts, Tirante secured the second set.

Following a break in the locker room, a somewhat revived Djokovic returned for the deciding set. However, a misjudged drop shot on Tirante's match point ultimately sealed Djokovic's exit. The veteran player must now regroup quickly as he prepares for the upcoming US Open, which begins on August 30.