The ‘relationship’ between Novak Djokovic and the Monte Carlo tournament has not been particularly positive in recent years, with the exception of the semifinal reached in the last edition. In the second part of his career – when his main focus became Grand Slam tournaments – the Serbian legend struggled more and more to adapt to red clay and suffered several surprising defeats in the Principality (where he triumphed ‘only’ twice).

Having just returned from the final at the Miami Open – a tournament that is played on a totally different surface than Monte Carlo – it was quite predictable that the 37-year-old from Belgrade would not shine in the first Masters 1000 on red clay this year.

However, Nole’s performance against Alejandro Tabilo in the second round was puzzling from all points of view. After a good start, the 24-time Grand Slam champion totally turned off the switch and suffered a very clear defeat against an opponent who did not seem destined to create particular problems for him (although he had already beaten him in Rome last year).

David Massey opens up on Djokovic

During the traditional post-tournament press conference, Monte Carlo Masters 1000 director David Massey also analyzed Novak’s disappointing run: “It’s normal for some players of the older generation to struggle to maintain the same level throughout the season and to suffer more defeats than usual.

Djokovic didn’t play his best tennis in this edition of the tournament, we know he was very disappointed with his performance and apologized to the crowd, but he’s an incredible player still. In Miami he showed that he can still win prestigious titles and that he can beat the best players in the world. Tennis has become extremely professional in all respects and current players are able to extend their careers into their 40s.”

The former world number 1 will return to action at the Mutua Madrid Open, which he will need to prepare for Roland Garros together with the Rome Masters 1000.