World · Malaysia Bureau
Djokovic suffers shock Basel loss, ATP Finals hopes dented
Novak Djokovic's return to Basel after 15 years ended in disappointment as the Serbian star fell to Germany's Jan-Lennard Struff in a three-set thriller. The unexpected defeat marks Djokovic's first loss to Struff in nine previous encounters.
LSN Malaysia ·
Djokovic was unable to navigate past Struff in the second round of the Swiss Indoors on Thursday, falling 6-7(4), 7-5, 7-6(5) in a closely contested match. The loss represents a significant setback for the former world number one as he looks to secure his position ahead of the ATP Finals later this season.
Returning to the Basel tournament for the first time since 2009, Djokovic faced a stern test from the 34-year-old German, who capitalised on key moments in each set to claim a maiden victory over the top seed. Struff's tactical approach and consistent serving proved difficult for Djokovic to break down throughout the encounter.
The defeat comes at a crucial juncture in the tennis calendar, with the year-end championships approaching. Djokovic will need to reassess his form and preparation as he seeks to regain momentum in the remaining tournaments before the ATP Finals. The result serves as a reminder that even established champions must remain sharp and focused against determined challengers at the sport's highest level.