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Djokovic Reveals Health Issue Behind China Open Struggles

Serb says condition is not a fitness problem but a specific medical issue he prefers not to disclose.

Sources: Essentially Sports, Ta Nea, Malay Mail, Tennis3654 sources ↓|· 1 min read
Djokovic Reveals Health Issue Behind China Open Struggles
Photo: Essentially Sports

KEY POINTS

  • Djokovic beat Bu Yunchaokete 4-6, 7-6(2), 6-2 to reach China Open semi-finals
  • He needed a medical timeout for abdominal discomfort during the match
  • Djokovic says a diagnosed health issue, not stamina, is behind his 2026 struggles
  • He refuses to disclose the specific condition to avoid appearing to make excuses
  • Health problems caused early losses in Cincinnati and the US Open this year

Novak Djokovic overcame Bu Yunchaokete 4-6, 7-6(2), 6-2 to reach the China Open semi-finals despite requiring a medical timeout for abdominal discomfort. After the match, the 24-time major champion clarified that his recurring physical struggles this season stem from a diagnosed health condition, not a lack of stamina.

Djokovic stated he does not want to reveal the exact nature of the issue to avoid sounding like he is making excuses. He said his team is working to manage the problem, which has turned much of the 2026 season into a constant physical test.

“It's not stamina. It's something else. More related to health.”

— Novak Djokovic

The Serb distinguished his current situation from fitness, citing his ability to win a five-hour Wimbledon quarter-final against Felix Auger-Aliassime as proof of his endurance. He noted that the health issue caused visible exhaustion and vomiting in Cincinnati and contributed to a first-round exit at the US Open.

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