Novak Djokovic made an unexpected early exit from the Cincinnati Open in Mason, falling in the opening round during his first competitive appearance since the Wimbledon semifinals. The 24-time Grand Slam champion was defeated by 25-year-old Argentine player Thiago Agustin Tirante in a 2-6, 6-4, 6-4 contest that stretched over two hours and 44 minutes amid hot and humid playing conditions.
Tirante Outlasts Djokovic in Mason Upset
World No. 50 Thiago Agustin Tirante mounted a resilient comeback after surrendering the opening set to secure the biggest victory of his career. The 39-year-old Djokovic, currently ranked fifth in the world and a three-time Cincinnati champion, was competing for the first time since his Wimbledon semifinal loss to Jannik Sinner. With the US Open scheduled to begin on August 30 in New York, this first-round loss presents a significant bump in the Serbian star's tournament preparation.
Alexandra Eala Advances as Ruse Retires
In the women's singles draw, 20th-ranked Alexandra Eala of the Philippines continued her impressive run of form by moving past Elena-Gabriela Ruse. Ruse dropped the opening set before an ankle injury forced her to withdraw from the match. Eala, who captured her inaugural WTA singles title in Washington earlier this month, has now emerged victorious in eight of her past nine professional matches.
Jessica Pegula Commands Win Over Simona Waltert
Third-ranked American Jessica Pegula delivered a dominant performance to defeat Simona Waltert 6-3, 6-2. The victory improved Pegula's 2026 hard-court record to 25-6. Having previously won the Cincinnati title in 2024, Pegula's strong form positions her as a serious contender to reclaim the trophy two years later.
