Novak Djokovic sported a helmet upon arrival at the Italian Open on Saturday, after being hit in the head by a bottle on Friday evening. The Serbian had eased past Corentin Moutet in the second round of action, setting up a last-32 clash with Alejandro Tabilo.
Always one to see the funny side, Djokovic was quick to mock himself following the bottle incident. While nothing more than an accident, Djokovic had been hit on the top of the head by a bottle that fell from the stands, with the Serbian dropping to the floor in pain.
Taking to X to share an update on his condition, Djokovic said: “Thank you for the messages of concern. This was an accident and I am fine resting at the hotel with an ice pack. See you all on Sunday.”
Any lingering concerns were then cleared up by the tournament organisers, who released a statement saying: “This is not being treated as a deliberate act, but as an accident.
“A boy was calling out to get an autograph and the bottle fell out of his bag. Novak has undergone the necessary checks and has already left to return to his hotel. His condition is not a cause for concern.”
Before the incident, it had been a comfortable evening for the world No.1, who despatched Moutet with ease. Running out a comfortable 6-3 6-1 winner, the 24-time Grand Slam champion looked back to his best after a tricky 2024 so far.
However, earlier in the day, Djokovic’s clash with Moutet had been interrupted after his French opponent’s phone started to ring midway through the game. Moutet – who was preparing a serve – had to trot over to his bag, before switching his phone off, much to the amusement of the Italian audience.
Even Djokovic was able to see the funny side, with the 12-time Italian Open finalist chuckling along with the crowd. Djokovic returns to action on Sunday afternoon when he takes on Tabilo with a place in the last-16 up for grabs.
