'Things are not the same' – Djokovic admits injuries catching up with him

Novak Djokovic admits niggling injuries have slowed him down in recent years, saying "things are not the same" as they were a decade ago.

The 24-time grand slam champion was stunned by Matteo Berrettini in a repeat of the 2021 Wimbledon final at the Qatar Open on Tuesday.

In what was Djokovic's first singles match since he was forced to retire from January's Australian Open semi-final against Alexander Zverev, the Serbian was beaten 7-6 (7-4) 6-2.

Djokovic refused to use his fitness issues as an excuse for Tuesday's defeat, instead choosing to praise Berrettini, who won 85% (40/47) of his first-serve points and served 13 aces.

"I didn't have any pain or discomfort in that sense. I was outplayed by just a better player," Djokovic said.

"Yes, I wasn't at my desired level, and it could be that I'm still not moving the way I want to move, but I played without pain, so there is no excuse in that.

"He was just the better player. I think he played a masterclass match, to be honest, tactically, and served very well, so just a very deserved win from his side."

Not what I was hoping for out there but good to be back on court. Still working on getting back to my desired level but I played without pain so no excuses. Matteo was the better player on the day and deserves his victory. Good luck Matteo and thank you Qatar for your support. pic.twitter.com/bir0L0rh1W
— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) February 19, 2025

However, Djokovic did admit to struggling with conditioning in recent years, saying: "There are more injuries. Things are not the same as 10 years ago, 15 years ago.

"I still try to take care of my body on a daily basis, and it's more challenging now, no doubt. I still try to do my very best, given the circumstances."

Djokovic endured a frustrating 2024, failing to capture a single grand slam title for the first time since 2017 – and just the second time since 2010.

He was beaten by Carlos Alcaraz in the Wimbledon final then went out to Alexei Popyrin in the third round of the US Open, though he did win singles gold at the Paris Olympics.

Djokovic is back in doubles action on Wednesday, teaming up with Fernando Verdasco – who will retire after the Qatar Open – to face Harri Heliovaara and Henry Patten.