2016 MONTE CARLO: SHOCK! Djokovic Loses To Vesely In 3 Sets

For the first in 2016, World #1 Novak Djokovic finished a completed match not as the victor. It happened in his first match on clay in Monte Carlo (which is basically his home court--he lists his residence there), losing to lefty Czech Jiri Vesely 6-4 2-6 6-4 in just over 2 hours. This is the first time in over 84 matches that Djokovic, 28, has lost to a player younger than he is (Vesely is 22). Vesely is currently ranked #55 and it is the first time Djokovic has lost to someone outside the Top 50 in over 5 years (Xavier Malisse at Queens Club in 2010).

Djokovic was forced by an eye infection to retire in the Dubai quarterfinals, but has won every other tournament he has played in since the 2015 Cincinnati Masters. The Monte Carlo Masters defending champion is now 28-2 for the year. (At this point last year Djokovic was 17-0). This loss on clay must put a damper on his chances of finally clinching the French Open this year, although it probably increases the likelihood that he will play in Madrid. It also gives hope to fans of Roger Federer that maybe this is the year Federer can win in Monte Carlo!