Djokovic stunned on return to action in Rome

Serbian star Novak Djokovic encountered a setback in his first match back from injury, losing in straight sets to Croatian 18-year-old qualifier Dino Prižmić in the second round of the Rome Masters, crashing out in a shock upset.

First match back ends in defeat

Djokovic returned from injury this week at the Rome Masters, playing his first official match since his layoff. From the match, the 24-time Grand Slam champion clearly had not rediscovered his peak form, making too many errors and ultimately absorbing another loss this season with a surprising scoreline.

Young qualifier writes career-defining chapter

Prižmić, who came through qualifying, showed no fear against the legendary player, producing a perfect performance to win in straight sets. The 18-year-old Croatian, ranked far below his opponent, displayed maturity beyond his years both in baseline exchanges and in handling crucial points. The victory was undoubtedly the biggest of Prižmić's career, earning valuable points and building precious confidence against a top-tier player. The rise of this young talent adds a surprising Cinderella story to this year's Rome Masters.