RismadarVoice Reporters, August 31, 2026
Novak Djokovic’s difficult 2026 season continued on Monday after the Serbian tennis great suffered a dramatic first-round exit at the US Open, losing to Argentina’s Mariano Navone in a five-set battle that ended with the 39-year-old visibly emotional on court.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion was defeated 7-6 (5), 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1 by Navone in a match lasting four hours and 36 minutes at Arthur Ashe Stadium. The defeat marked Djokovic’s earliest exit from a Grand Slam tournament in two decades and his first opening-round loss at the US Open.
Djokovic appeared to struggle physically throughout the encounter, with reports indicating that he battled illness, vomiting episodes, cramps and discomfort that affected his movement and performance. Despite taking a two-sets-to-one lead, the Serbian was unable to maintain his advantage as Navone controlled the final stages of the match.
Navone, ranked outside the world’s top 40, produced the biggest victory of his career by overcoming one of tennis’ greatest players. The Argentine showed composure under pressure and took advantage of Djokovic’s physical difficulties to complete a memorable upset.
The result adds to growing questions surrounding Djokovic’s ability to maintain his elite level as he enters the later stages of his career. The Serbian has continued competing at the highest level despite his age, but recent struggles with fitness and early tournament exits have highlighted the challenges of extending a historic career.
Djokovic had been aiming for a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title in New York, but his hopes ended in a match that underlined the physical demands facing one of the sport’s most successful athletes.
Although defeated, Djokovic received recognition from the crowd after another remarkable chapter in his career. Navone, meanwhile, secured the most significant win of his professional journey by defeating a player widely regarded as one of the greatest tennis players in history.
