Novak Djokovic, a four-time US Open champion and widely considered one of tennis’s all-time greats, suffered a stunning first-round exit at the 2026 US Open on Sunday evening. The 39-year-old was defeated by Argentina’s Mariano Navone in a grueling five-set encounter, marking his earliest departure from a Grand Slam since the 2006 Australian Open.
The marathon match, lasting four hours and 36 minutes – Djokovic’s longest opening match of a major in his career – saw Navone prevail with a final score of 7-6 (5), 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1. Djokovic had initially taken control, leading 3-0 in the first set, and even successfully lobbied for the roof to be closed and air conditioning activated. However, his physical struggles became increasingly apparent throughout the contest.
Djokovic’s ongoing health battle
Visibly unwell, Djokovic vomited multiple times during the match and appeared to be battling several injuries, including issues with his back and shoulder. By the fifth set, the Serbian star was visibly emotional, struggling to hold back tears as his performance declined.
In his post-match interview, Djokovic candidly addressed his condition. “I think it was obvious that it was an awful feeling on the court for me,” he stated, as reported by the Gazette & Herald. He revealed that these issues were not new. “It’s something that I’ve been carrying, unfortunately, pretty much every match this year. You know, vomiting, throwing up, a serious issue there. Then my whole body, you know, starts to collapse, basically cramping and pain. Yeah, the back just gave up in the end and shoulder, and I couldn’t close it out?”
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Djokovic further expressed his profound discomfort during the match, admitting, “I pretty much despised every moment that I spent on the court for that.” The veteran player also voiced uncertainty about his future, asking, “Can the issue be fixed? I don’t know. I’m trying, man. I’m trying. Let’s see.” These comments come amidst broader suggestions that Djokovic may consider retirement given his ongoing struggles on court.
Navone’s momentous victory
For Mariano Navone, the victory was a career highlight. The Argentine expressed his elation in an on-court interview, describing it as “the best thing I’ve felt on a court. This amazing court, the biggest stage, it’s amazing. The way we played… five sets against the GOAT. Not something you do every day. I’m very happy. I don’t know what I can say.”
Navone will now advance to the second round, where he is set to face either Stan Wawrinka or Matteo Berrettini.
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