DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — Top-ranked Novak Djokovic retired during his quarterfinal against Feliciano Lopez in the Dubai Tennis Championships with an infection in his eyes Thursday, ending his run of 17 consecutive final appearances.
“It’s an eye problem,” Djokovic, wearing dark sunglasses, said at his post-match news conference. “I have had it ever since I arrived to Dubai. Started with an infection, and then severe allergy.”
Djokovic said the infection started in his right eye but then presented in both eyes. He was instructed not to wear his contact lenses except for during matches because it aggravates the condition.