Novak Djokovic has addressed lingering questions about his schedule ahead of Roland Garros, following a shocking second-round exit at the Italian Open. The world number one fell to 18-year-old Dino Prizmic in a three-set thriller, losing 2-6, 6-2, 6-4 after taking the first set comfortably. It was Djokovic's third straight loss at the tournament, raising eyebrows about his form and fitness.

When asked if he plans to compete in a warm-up event before the French Open, Djokovic was candid: "I don't know. I hope so! Let's see what happens." The uncertainty is notable, especially given his history of using tune-up tournaments to build momentum. In 2025, after early exits in Monte Carlo and Madrid, Djokovic entered the Geneva Open and clinched his 100th career title—a run that propelled him to the Roland Garros semifinals later that season.

This time, however, Djokovic has opted to skip Geneva, leaving fans wondering if he'll head to Paris underprepared. Speaking after his loss, the 24-time Grand Slam champion didn't sugarcoat his struggles. "It's not an ideal preparation, to be honest. I don't recall the last time in the last couple of years where I had a preparation without any physical or health issues coming into a tournament. There's always something," he admitted.

Djokovic acknowledged that his body is sending different signals now than in his prime. "Kind of a new reality that I have to deal with. Yeah, it is frustrating. At the same time, it's my decision to still perform in that kind of state and conditions. It is what it is," he said. For a player who has dominated clay for years, these words carry weight—and for fans and apparel enthusiasts alike, they underscore the importance of gear that supports recovery and performance, especially as the season's biggest tests loom.