Rusty Novak gracious in defeat by Berrettini

Novak Djokovic admitted he was "outplayed" as his comeback came to a crashing halt on Feb 18, when he lost 7-6 (7-4), 6-2 to Matteo Berrettini in the second round of the Qatar Open.

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DOHA - Novak Djokovic admitted he was "outplayed" as his comeback came to a crashing halt on Feb 18, when he lost 7-6 (7-4), 6-2 to Matteo Berrettini in the second round of the Qatar Open.

The Serb, who was seeded third and received a first-round bye, was rusty as he was playing his first match since limping out of his Australian Open semi-final in January.

But the 37-year-old said that while he was not at 100 per cent, fitness was not the issue in Doha.

"I was outplayed by just a better player today," the 24-time Grand Slam champion said.

"I wasn't at my desired level, and it could be that I'm still not moving the way I want to move, but I played without pain, so there is no excuse in that.

"I think he played a masterclass match to be honest, tactically, and served very well, so just a very deserved win from his side."