New York – In a surprising upset on Sunday night, Novak Djokovic, the 39‑year‑old Serbian who holds the record with 24 major titles, was knocked out of the US Open in the first round. He fell to Argentina’s rising star Mariano Navone, 7‑6 (5), 5‑7, 4‑6, 6‑2, 6‑1, in a marathon that lasted four hours and 36 minutes.
Physical struggles hampered the champion
Djokovic entered the match already battling lingering health issues. He described feeling “awful” on court, noting repeated bouts of vomiting and severe cramping that plagued him throughout the tournament. During a medical timeout between the fourth and fifth sets, a doctor provided medication and a back massage, but the relief was short‑lived.
The Serbian veteran accumulated 70 unforced errors and appeared visibly uncomfortable, grimacing after several shots and even dropping his racket after a mis‑step in the fourth set. He admitted his body was “collapsing,” with his lower back and shoulder giving out at the worst possible moment.
Navone’s breakthrough performance
Navone, a 25‑year‑old who captured his first ATP singles title earlier this year, showed no signs of intimidation. He maintained composure through the grueling five‑set battle and secured his first Grand Slam victory. “It was very tough for me because you are playing with the ‘GOAT’ on this court,” Navone said, referencing Djokovic’s status as the greatest of all time. “I’m very happy. I don’t know what to say.”
For Navone, the win represents a career‑defining moment, turning a childhood admiration for Djokovic into a personal triumph on tennis’s biggest stage.
Implications for Djokovic’s future
This loss follows a recent first‑round defeat at the Cincinnati hard‑court event, suggesting a pattern of early exits that has not been seen in Djokovic’s career since his debut at the US Open in 2005. After the match, he expressed uncertainty about his ability to compete at the highest level, saying he was “trying to address what’s going on and how far I can go.”
Fans and commentators alike are now questioning whether this could be Djokovic’s final appearance at a Grand Slam. The former Wimbledon champion’s recent injuries and health concerns have raised doubts about his longevity in a sport that demands peak physical condition.
What’s next for the US Open field?
Navone’s victory reshapes the men’s draw, opening a pathway for other contenders. With the defending champion out, the tournament becomes even more open, offering opportunities for younger players to make deep runs.
As the US Open progresses, the focus will shift to the remaining top seeds and the emerging talent looking to capitalize on the unexpected opening created by Djokovic’s early departure.
Original reporting: Brookhaven News – ABC7 New York — read the source article.
