Djokovic & Musetti Locked In Monte-Carlo Battle

Novak Djokovic's quest for a record-extending 39th ATP Masters 1000 title is under threat at the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters, where Lorenzo Musetti has forced a deciding set against the top seed.

After winning the first set, the Serbian has struggled to find his best level in the windy conditions on Court Rainier III, losing serve seven times before rain forced the players off with the score 6-4, 5-7, 1-1, 40/30.

Djokovic, who holds a 3-0 ATP Head2Head series lead against Musetti, will meet Jannik Sinner in the quarter-finals if he advances. The Italian defeated Hubert Hurkacz earlier Thursday.

Djokovic began the week with an ATP Tour-leading 58.7 winning percentage behind his second serve according to Infosys ATP Stats. Against Musetti he has managed to win just 27 per cent of his second-serve points (6/22).

The 35-year-old is chasing his third title in Monte-Carlo this week, having triumphed in 2013 and 2015. Earlier this season he clinched a record-equalling 22nd Grand Slam trophy at the Australian Open, with his only defeat of the season coming against Daniil Medvedev in the Dubai semi-finals.

Musetti entered the clash with momentum, having defeated Miomir Kecmanovic 7-6(1), 6-0 and Luca Nardi 6-0, 6-0. The 21-year-old Italian is aiming to reach his second ATP Masters 1000 quarter-final after enjoying a run to the last eight in Paris in 2022.