Novak Djokovic accepts ‘new reality’ after returning with defeat at Italian Open

Novak Djokovic, 38, lost in the second round of the Italian Open in Rome to 20-year-old Croatian qualifier Dino Prizmic, 2-6, 6-2, 6-4. It was Djokovic's first competitive match in two months, having last played at Indian Wells, and he described the result as a reflection of his 'new reality' amid ongoing physical struggles. Djokovic called the defeat 'not ideal preparation' ahead of the French Open later this month.