A 20 years younger Doflamingo who possibly didn't have awakening, retreating against a vice admiral who is constantly shown alongside Garp and Sengoku.
And in Doflamingo's case, you could truly call it tactical retreat. After all, Doffy was building his empire and later joined the Shichibukai (if not even being a Shichibukai at that point), so losing his political status by being exposed for his criminal activities would be extremely disadvantageous.
On the other hand, Doffy showing no fear when going for the kill against Smoker with Aokiji up his back, and attacking Fujitora (even though obviously being inferior), shows some guts the Yonko did not have.