Djokovic eliminated in US Open first round by Navone
World No. 1 Novak Djokovic lost to Argentina's Mariano Navone in a five-set match, marking his earliest US Open exit in two decades amid physical ailments.
Novak Djokovic was defeated by Argentina’s Mariano Navine in the first round of the US Open, falling 7-6 (5), 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1 in a match that lasted four hours and 36 minutes. The loss ended the 39-year-old’s streak of never having lost a first-round match at the tournament and was his earliest Grand Slam exit since the 2006 Australian Open.
Djokovic, who has won 24 major titles, said he was “not enjoying” the match and described feeling “vomiting, cramping and pain” that affected his performance. He required medical assistance, including a back massage and medication, after throwing up during the contest.
"I didn’t enjoy myself," Djokovic said. "It’s something that I’ve been carrying, unfortunately, pretty much every match this year: vomiting, throwing up, a serious issue there. Then my whole body 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."
Navone, a 25-year-old who won his first ATP title earlier this year, expressed excitement about the victory, noting the significance of beating a player he had idolized.
"It was very tough for me because you are playing with the ‘GOAT’ on this court. I’m very happy."
The defeat follows a first-round loss at the Cincinnati hard-court event and raises questions about Djokovic’s ability to compete at the highest level given ongoing health concerns.