NOVAK REALITY CHECK

NOVAK DJOKOVIC has dropped a huge hint about his imminent retirement after admitting he might not return to the Madrid Masters next year.

- by NEIL McLEMAN

The Serbian superstar (inset) lost 6-3 6-4 in the first round in the Spanish capital to Italian Matteo Arnaldi - the second time he has suffered three consecutive defeats this season.

Djokovic, who turns 38 next month, is still seeking a 25th Grand Slam title to break the record he shares with Margaret Court.