Italian Open: Novak Djokovic lost to qualifier Dino Prismic

Novak Djokovic was beaten by brave qualifier Dino Prismic on his return to action in the second round of the Italian Open.

World number four Djokovic was playing his first match since March 12 – and more importantly his first match of the year – after missing several tournaments with a shoulder injury.

Djokovic, the six-time champion in Rome, started strongly but was labored and appeared to be battling illness in the second set.

However, this could take nothing away from Croatia’s Prismic, who played bravely to defeat the Serb 2-6 6-2 6-4.

The 20-year-old, one of many players who regard Djokovic as his idol, wrote “Know it was a pleasure” on camera after the match.

Djokovic, who suffered a first-round exit in Italy, later said he would not play before the start of the French Open on May 24, where he will once again chase a personal-record 25th Grand Slam singles title.

“I’m definitely not where I want to be to compete at the highest level and be able to go far,” said the 38-year-old.

“I can’t remember the last time I prepared in such a way that I didn’t have any physical problems or health issues going into the tournament.

“There’s always something. It’s kind of a new reality that I have to deal with.”

Djokovic, a semifinalist at Roland Garros last year, reached the Australian Open final in January, losing in four sets to Carlos Alcaraz.

He will turn 39 two days before the start of the French Open.