Djokovic Returns to Cincinnati Courts in 2026

Novak Djokovic is returning to the Cincinnati Open in 2026 as part of his preparation for the US Open. The 39-year-old Serbian tennis star, a three-time champion at this ATP Masters 1000 event, had missed the last two editions. Djokovic enters the tournament as the third seed and received a first-round bye, meaning his first match will be in the second round against Thiago Agustin Tirante of Argentina.

Djokovic's most recent appearance was at the 2026 Wimbledon Championships, where he reached the semifinals. Tirante, currently ranked World No. 50, competed in the Canadian Open prior to Cincinnati, where he achieved a notable upset against Taylor Fritz before his run ended in the fourth round. Tirante also survived a tough first-round match in Cincinnati.

Despite Tirante's recent performances, Djokovic is heavily favored due to his extensive experience on hard courts and his past success in Cincinnati. However, Tirante's aggressive baseline game could pose a challenge, and he might take a set if Djokovic shows signs of rustiness after his Wimbledon campaign.