By Dwayne Ferreira.
Novak Djokovic suffered a sensational first-round exit from the 2026 US Open after being beaten by Argentina’s Mariano Navone in a five-set battle at Arthur Ashe Stadium.
The 39-year-old Serbian, chasing a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam singles title, went down 7-6 (7-5), 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1 after more than four and a half hours on court.
Djokovic appeared to struggle physically as the match progressed, with discomfort affecting his movement during the closing stages. Despite recovering from losing the opening set to take a two-sets-to-one lead, he was unable to maintain his level.
Navone seized control in the fourth set before dominating the decider as Djokovic’s physical condition visibly deteriorated.
The four-time US Open champion became emotional during the final stages of the contest and was seen fighting back tears before leaving the court.
The defeat marks Djokovic’s earliest US Open exit and his first opening-round loss at a Grand Slam in around two decades.
For Navone, the victory represents one of the biggest results of his career.
Djokovic’s shock departure also raises fresh questions over how long the 24-time Grand Slam champion can continue challenging for tennis’ biggest titles.
