Novak Djokovic Reveals Health Issue and Hints at Retirement Timeline After Loss at Cincinnati Open

After surprisingly losing in the second round of the Cincinnati Open on Saturday, tennis legend Novak Djokovic opened up about a longstanding medical issue.

Djokovic labored through a 2-6, 6-4, 6-4 loss against Argentina's Thiago Agustín Tirante, and he called for a medical timeout in the middle of their second set after dropping to his hands and knees. He appeared to be vomiting into a towel at one point.

Per Desiree Anello of People, Djokovic revealed that he's been dealing with a medical condition that was further exacerbated by the extreme heat and humidity in Cincinnati.

"It's because of a health issue I have," he told reporters after the loss. "I've been dealing with it for many years now. It causes me a lot of problems, especially when there's a lot of humidity and heat. ... I did anticipate it [would be humid], but there are all these things, like nerves and everything involved that make it worse, and that's what happened."

Djokovic was asked if he plans to be back for the Cincinnati Open in 2027, and the 39-year-old hinted that he may have already made his final appearance in the tournament.

"I certainly hope so, but unfortunately, at this point it seems more likely that I won't," he replied. "However, we'll see what the future holds."

Djokovic will now turn his attention to the US Open, which begins on Aug. 30. He will also be participating in the mixed doubles competition alongside Aryna Sabalenka.

It sounds like the 24-time Grand Slam champion is nearing the end of his legendary career, so fans will cherish every opportunity to watch him compete until he officially hangs it up.