Novak Djokovic Suffers Shock US Open First-Round Exit Amid Tears and Pain

Novak Djokovic’s bid for a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title has ended in stunning fashion, with the fourth-seeded Serbian losing to Argentina’s Mariano Navone in the first round of the 2026 US Open.

Navone prevailed 7-6(5), 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1 in a marathon lasting 4 hours and 36 minutes at Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Djokovic Struggles Physically

The 39-year-old Djokovic was visibly unwell throughout the match. He vomited multiple times, battled cramping and experienced problems with his back and shoulder.

Despite those difficulties, Djokovic fought back after losing the opening set and took a two-sets-to-one lead. However, his physical condition deteriorated badly in the fourth and fifth sets.

Djokovic later said he had been dealing with vomiting and other physical problems during matches throughout the year, describing his experience on court as extremely difficult.

Earliest Grand Slam Exit in 20 Years

The defeat is Djokovic’s first opening-round loss at a Grand Slam since the 2006 Australian Open.

It is also his first-ever first-round defeat at the US Open, ending a remarkable streak at Flushing Meadows.

The loss also ends his hopes of winning a record 25th men’s singles Grand Slam title.

Navone Produces Career-Defining Victory

For Mariano Navone, the victory is arguably the biggest win of his career.

The 25-year-old Argentine remained composed against one of tennis’s greatest players and took advantage as Djokovic’s physical problems became increasingly severe.

Navone described defeating Djokovic on Arthur Ashe Stadium as a dream come true.

Questions Over Djokovic’s Future

The emotional nature of Djokovic’s exit has inevitably raised questions about his future at the US Open and potentially at Grand Slam level.

After the match, Djokovic acknowledged that he needs to address the physical problems he has been experiencing and suggested uncertainty about how long he can continue competing under those circumstances.

For now, one of the greatest careers in tennis enters another uncertain chapter after an extraordinary night in New York.