Emotional Djokovic crashes out in US Open first round

Novak Djokovic suffered a shocking first-round exit at the US Open on Sunday, August 30, 2026, marking his earliest departure from a Grand Slam tournament in two decades. The 39-year-old tennis star, visibly emotional and in tears, was defeated by unseeded Argentine Mariano Navone in a grueling five-set match that lasted four hours and 36 minutes, with a final score of 7-6(5), 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1. This loss was also Djokovic's first-ever opening-round defeat at the US Open.

Throughout the demanding match, Djokovic appeared to struggle significantly with his physical condition. He reportedly vomited multiple times on court, battled a persistent back issue, and experienced cramps, indicating a broader health concern he acknowledged had affected him throughout the year. His opponent, world number 49 Mariano Navone, described the victory as a "dream come true" and the biggest win of his career, remaining composed as Djokovic's quest for a record 25th major title ended unexpectedly.