MONACO (AP) — Novak Djokovic is gearing up for a chance to rectify one of the more unexpected defeats in his illustrious career.
The legendary 24-time Grand Slam champion is set to battle 32nd-ranked Alejandro Tabilo in his opening round at the prestigious Monte Carlo Masters.
In a thrilling first-round encounter, Tabilo triumphed over the 2014 champion Stan Wawrinka, clinching the match with scores of 1-6, 7-5, 7-5. This victory sets the stage for an intriguing second-round rematch with Djokovic, who was surprisingly defeated by Tabilo at the Italian Open last year.
Djokovic, who received a first-round bye at Monte Carlo, is looking to bounce back after winning only five games against Tabilo during their previous clash in Rome.
This match marks Djokovic’s return to the court since his loss to Jakub Mensik in the Miami Open final.
The Monte Carlo Masters stands as the premier clay-court tournament of the season, and in other matches during the round of 64 on Monday, Jiri Lehecka overcame Sebastian Korda with scores of 6-3, 7-6 (7), while Marcos Giron edged past Denis Shapovalov, winning 6-3, 7-6 (5).
