Djokovic to Face Tabilo in Monte Carlo Rematch After Wawrinka Win
Novak Djokovic is about to get his shot at payback. The 24-time Grand Slam champion will face Alejandro Tabilo in the second round of the Monte Carlo Masters, a rematch of their shocking 2024 clash in Rome where Tabilo beat Djokovic in straight sets.
Tabilo, currently ranked No. 32, earned his spot by grinding past 2014 champion Stan Wawrinka 1-6, 7-5, 7-5 in a gritty first-round battle on Monday. His win denied fans a marquee Djokovic-Wawrinka showdown and instead sets up a must-watch revenge match between Tabilo and Djokovic.
A Test of Nerves and Clay
Wawrinka, playing in Monte Carlo for the 15th time, looked sharp early and dominated the first set. But Tabilo found rhythm on return and stayed steady under pressure. Despite letting a 5-3 lead in the final set and clip in the decider, the Chilean recovered and clinched the win on his third match point.
Tabilo broke an eight-match losing streak on clay with the victory . His last win on the surface? That 2024 upset over Djokovic in Rome, where he allowed the Serbian just five games.
Now, he’ll try to repeat history — but this time, Djokovic is ready and has regain his spirit.
The Monte Carlo Masters marks Djokovic’s return to clay and his first match since falling in the Miami Open final to Jakub Mensik.
Other Day 2 Highlights
- Jiri Lehecka handled Sebastian Korda 6-3, 7-6(7) to begin his 2025 clay campaign strong. He’ll face Lorenzo Musetti or Buyunchaokete next.
- Marcos Giron moved to 3-1 against Denis Shapovalov with a tight 6-3, 7-6(5) win. Giron’s experience on clay helped him outlast the Canadian.
All eyes now turn to Djokovic’s next move — and whether Tabilo can shock him again on the red dirt of Monte Carlo.
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