Novak Djokovic loses third consecutive match, to Matteo Arnaldi in Madrid

There were signs of trouble from the very beginning of Novak Djokovic's opening-round match at the Mutua Madrid Open.

One hour and 40 minutes later, it was clear those signs were accurate.

The 37-year-old's quest for a 100th career title—and first on the ATP Tour since the 2023 season-ending championships—will not continue in Madrid, following a 6-3, 6-4 loss to 44th-ranked Matteo Arnaldi.

Arnaldi broke Djokovic right away for a 2-0 lead, and closed out the center-court contest with a hold at 15. The return of serve may be the 24-time Grand Slam champion's signature shot, but it was ineffective against the Italian in this must-break situation, and during the match at large. Arnaldi saved four of five break points and prevailed in straight sets despite winning just 55 percent of his first-serve points.

Returning at 3-4 in the second set, Djokovic got to 15-40, but Arnaldi held strong, showing virtually no nerves against a player he idolizes. Serving at 3-4 in the first set, Djokovic double faulted on break point.

"It was a rough day for Novak Djokovic," said Tennis Channel's Prakash Amritraj. "I didn't see a pep in his step."

Arnaldi concurred, in so many words: "He's my idol. He's always been. I'm just glad I could play him," said the 24-year-old. "Playing him in a stage like this was already a victory for me. But you know, he's not at his best right now."

This is the third time Djokovic has lost three consecutive matches since 2018, but the second time already this year. His most recent slump began in the Miami Open final, 7-6 (4), 7-6 (4) to Jakub Mensik, then continued in Monte Carlo, 6-3, 6-4 to Alejandro Tabilo.

Same score, same result on Saturday in Madrid.