Novak Djokovic endured a difficult night at the U.S. Open as physical problems and an aggressive opponent combined to produce a rare first-round defeat.
The 24-time Grand Slam singles champion lost to unseeded Mariano Navone in five sets, 7-6 (5), 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1. The result marked Djokovic’s earliest Grand Slam exit since the 2006 Australian Open.
Djokovic vomited and battled cramps before Mariano Navone completed a stunning five-set upset
The US Open upset unfolded over more than four hours, with Djokovic struggling physically as the match progressed.
At one point, the Serbian star vomited on the court. He later grabbed his foot because of a cramp and received medical attention. A doctor gave him medication, while Djokovic also received a back massage during a medical timeout.
Despite those efforts, Navone continued to apply pressure and took control late in the match.
The fifth set brought another difficult moment for Djokovic. With Navone leading 3-1, Djokovic became emotional as spectators tried to encourage him. The Novak Djokovic tears and vomiting added to an already challenging night for the former champion.
Navone, ranked No. 48 in the world, maintained an aggressive approach and eventually closed out the final set 6-1 to secure the victory.
Afterward, Djokovic made clear how difficult the experience had been.
“I didn’t enjoy myself. I think it was obvious that it was an awful feeling on the court for me,” he said as per TMZ.
The Djokovic first-round exit also carried historical significance for his career. Before Sunday, Djokovic had never lost in the opening round of the U.S. Open.
His last first-round defeat at any Grand Slam had come two decades earlier at the 2006 Australian Open.
For Navone, the result represented a major win against one of the sport’s most accomplished players. For Novak Djokovic, the loss ended his tournament much earlier than usual after a match marked by cramps, sickness and visible emotion.
