Rome, 8 May (LaPresse) – The Italian Open has lost one of its star players right at the start. Serbian champion Novak Djokovic, world number four and six-time winner in Rome (most recently in 2022), was knocked out in the second round, beaten by 20-year-old Croatian Dino Prizmic in three sets, 6-2, 2-6, 4-6. In 18 appearances at the Foro Italico, the Serb had never before been knocked out in his opening match. Djokovic arrived at the Internazionali in a state of considerable physical and competitive uncertainty, fresh from a long lay-off. The Serbian had chosen to make his return in Rome after almost two months of enforced absence from the ATP Tour. His season so far has been heavily affected by physical problems, in particular an injury to his right shoulder that forced him to miss the tournaments in Miami and Madrid. His target is Roland Garros. Although doubtful about his form, Djokovic has, as always, shown a strong connection with the Roman public, even training in Piazza del Popolo to promote the capital’s Masters 1000 tournament.