Novak Djokovic loses Serbia Open final to Andrey Rublev

The defeat leaves Djokovic without an ATP Tour title this season, while Rublev claimed his third tour-level crown of the season - equalling the tally of Rafael Nadal - following previous victories in Marseille and Dubai in February.

It was Rublev's first win over a world number one and he broke Djokovic's serve twice in the opening set and saved five set points in the second to force a tie-break, but Djokovic stormed into a 5-2 lead and let out a roar of delight as he levelled the contest.

In the deciding set Rublev broke his opponent's serve three times to win it without losing a game.

"It is big to play against you and share the court for the second time," Rublev said to Djokovic during the trophy ceremony.

"I hope we have more battles. I feel so great here, it is a very nice city. It feels really special. I want to say a big thanks to all the spectators for supporting all the players all week. To see full crowds again is special for all of us."