Novak Djokovic Eliminated by Thiago Agustin Tirante in Cincinnati Open

MASON, Ohio — Novak Djokovic’s run at the Cincinnati Open was cut short on Saturday as the 24-time major champion lost to Thiago Agustin Tirante, 2-6, 6-4, 6-4, in a second-round match that lasted 2 hours and 44 minutes under sweltering conditions. The match marked Djokovic’s first competition since his semifinal defeat to Jannik Sinner at Wimbledon.

Tirante, a 25-year-old from Argentina who is ranked No. 50 in the world, managed to break Djokovic’s serve in the crucial ninth game of the final set, ultimately sealing the match in a stunning upset. Djokovic, the No. 5 player and a three-time Cincinnati Open champion, had entered the tournament with a 10-match winning streak in Cincinnati, where he previously claimed titles in 2020 and 2023.

“I think this is the best win of my career,” Tirante remarked after the match. “I managed very well the nerves of playing against a legend like Novak.” Djokovic was able to save 13 of the 15 break points he faced during the match.

Looking ahead, Djokovic’s next challenge will be the U.S. Open, which begins on August 30.

Eala and Pegula Advance in Women’s Draw

In women’s play, Alexandra Eala of the Philippines recorded a victory over Elena-Gabriela Ruse, who was forced to retire in the second set due to an ankle injury. Eala, ranked No. 20, had just claimed her first WTA singles title earlier this month in Washington and is currently on a strong streak, having won eight of her last nine matches.

American Jessica Pegula also progressed, defeating Simona Waltert 6-3, 6-2. Pegula, ranked third in the world, improved her record to 25-6 on hard courts in 2026 after winning the Cincinnati title in 2024.

Special Credits: Image Courtesy of Espn