Shocking moment Novak Djokovic is hit in head by water bottle as he drops to floor in agony and security step in

NOVAK DJOKOVIC collapsed to the floor after being hit on the head by a bottle at the Italian Open – needing medical attention as security staff rushed to help.

The Serb legend crumpled to the floor in apparent agony as he signed autographs in Rome, having just beaten Corentin Moutet in the opening round.

X/TheTennisLetterNovak Djokovic was hit by a water container that fell from the crowd[/caption]

X/TheTennisLetterThe tennis hero clutched his head and crumpled over[/caption]

Security staff intervened to help

The 24-time Grand Slam winner, 36, had stopped for fans as he walked off when an aluminium-type container landed on the top of his head.

Djokovic immediately fell to the ground, curling up as if going into a ball, and wrapping his arms around his head.

X/TheTennisLetterNovak Djokovic struck by a water bottle[/caption]

He was then helped by another man before being carefully led away.

Concerned fans leaned over the barriers, looking shocked and concerned.

Djokovic did not do the usual post-match interviews and tournament organisers said doctors would examine the bump on his head.

The saga unfurled after he autographed a fan’s cap and then turned to the other side of the railings, where a child was leaning over with a notebook to be signed.

Organisers believe a bottle then fell out of a backpack before hitting Djokovic.

Journalist Jose Morgado posted the shocking clip with the words: “Oh my god Djokovic got hit by a bottle while leaving the court in Rome. Hoping all is good!”

Earlier, Djokovic had begun his first match for nearly a month a little below par.

He lost his first two service games before tidying up his performance to overcome French qualifier Moutet 6-3 6-1.