Thiago Tirante stuns Novak Djokovic in Cincinnati Masters for career-best win

Thiago Tirante achieved the biggest victory of his career by defeating Novak Djokovic, the world No. 5 and three-time champion, in the second round of the Cincinnati Masters 1000. The 25-year-old Argentine secured the win with a 6-2, 4-6, 6-4 scoreline.

This triumph is particularly significant as it's the first time an Argentine has beaten Djokovic in ten years, with Juan Martín del Potro being the last to do so at the Rio de Janeiro Olympics. Tirante, ranked 50th, showed respect to his legendary opponent, approaching Djokovic for a warm handshake after the match. He later expressed his disbelief and happiness, stating, "It was very difficult to play on the center court against a legend... The key was to keep believing in myself after missing so many break opportunities."

Tirante will now face Spain's Martín Landaluce in the next round. This win follows his earlier victories this year against top-ten players Ben Shelton and Taylor Fritz. Tirante's current record for the year stands at 24 wins and 13 losses. He had a grueling first-round match against Jan Choinski, which he won in three tie-break sets.

Djokovic, who had a bye in the first round, initially took control of the match by breaking Tirante's serve in the sixth game of the first set. However, Tirante managed to save two break points and eventually lost the set. In the second set, Tirante missed multiple break opportunities, and Djokovic appeared to struggle with physical discomfort, requiring medical assistance. Despite Djokovic's condition, Tirante maintained his focus and secured the crucial win.

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It was very difficult to play on the center court against a legend... The key was to keep believing in myself after missing so many break opportunities. I kept going and got this win. I am very happy.