Rio 2016: Djokovic falls to Del Potro

Omnisports

August 8, 2016 1:18 AM

The top seed in the men's singles tournament, Novak Djokovic, fell in round one following a superb performance from Juan Martin Del Potro.

___5352079___https:______static.pulse.com.gh___webservice___escenic___binary___5352079___2016___8___8___5___juan-martin-del-potro-cropped_2saphbfehedu1bypzhqarll49

World number one Novak Djokovic was dumped out of the men's singles tournament at Rio 2016 in the first round as Juan Martin Del Potro's resurgence continued.

Fit again after being badly hampered by wrist problems in recent years, Del Potro provided one of the feel-good stories of Wimbledon by knocking out fourth seed Stan Wawrinka in round two.

And the powerful Argentinian was able to spring another surprise on Sunday, beating Djokovic 7-6 (7-4) 7-6 (7-2), with the aid of 41 winners.

Del Potro had also triumphed over Djokovic in the bronze medal match at London 2012.

Following his latest setback, a visibly emotional Djokovic was moved to tears as he waved to fans on his exit from Centre Court.

The Serbian, who could yet earn a medal in the doubles alongside veteran Nenad Zimonjic, battled hard but ultimately failed to find an answer to Del Potro's attacking prowess.

Neither player was able to break, yet it was perhaps telling that Del Potro earned seven chances to triumph on the Djokovic serve, while the favourite failed to get a look-in when returning.

Del Potro will move on to face Joao Sousa in round two on Tuesday.

Omnisports

Enhance Your Pulse News Experience!

Get rewards worth up to $20 when selected to participate in our exclusive focus group. Your input will help us to make informed decisions that align with your needs and preferences.

I've got feedback!