Novak Djokovic lost a first‑round match at the US Open after Argentina’s Mariano Navone stunned the 24‑time Grand Slam champion in a dramatic five‑set battle in New York. Corrections Policy
Novak Djokovic struggled physically throughout the humid contest. Was visibly emotional during the deciding set as Mariano Navone completed one of the biggest victories of his career.
Novak Djokovic eventually lost 7‑6 (7‑5) 5‑7, 4‑6, 6‑2 6‑1 after than four hours of intense competition.
The defeat marked the time Novak Djokovic had been eliminated in the opening round of the US Open at Flushing Meadows. It was also Novak Djokovic’s first‑round defeat at a Grand Slam tournament since 2006 bringing an extraordinary run of consistency at the sport’s biggest events to an abrupt end.
The 39‑year‑old Novak Djokovic initially appeared capable of recovering after falling battling back to win the third set and put Novak Djokovic in a strong position.
However Novak Djokovic’s physical condition deteriorated as the match progressed. Novak Djokovic appeared uncomfortable in the humid New York conditions and at one point vomited into a towel bin during the deciding set.
Mariano Navone capitalised on Novak Djokovic’s struggles maintaining Mariano Navone’s intensity and refusing to allow Novak Djokovic into the contest.
Mariano Navone eventually won the two sets comfortably completing a remarkable comeback and securing the biggest victory of Mariano Navone’s career.
Novak Djokovic was visibly overcome with emotion towards the end of the match. Appeared close to tears before making his way to the net to congratulate Mariano Navone.
Despite the disappointment Novak Djokovic showed the sportsmanship that has characterised much of Novak Djokovic’s career acknowledging Mariano Navone’s performance before beginning the walk back to the locker room.
“I think it was obvious that it was a feeling on the court for Novak Djokovic ” Novak Djokovic said after the match.
“I do not want to take much out of Mariano Navone’s win. Congrats to Mariano Navone he is a guy and a fighter – but I did not… “
For Novak Djokovic the defeat carries significance beyond a single tournament loss.
Novak Djokovic arrived in New York hoping to continue his pursuit of a 25th Grand Slam singles title. Victory at the US Open would also have allowed Novak Djokovic to move clear of Margaret Court’s record of 24 singles titles.
Instead Novak Djokovic’s campaign ended before Novak Djokovic could establish any momentum in the tournament. Editorial Standards
Novak Djokovic had been regarded as one of the leading contenders for a run in New York particularly with world number one Jannik Sinner absent through injury and defending champion Carlos Alcaraz returning from a long‑term wrist injury. Editorial Ethics & Independence
Mariano Navone however had plans.Ranked 49th in the world the 25‑year‑old Mariano Navone displayed composure against one of the most decorated players in tennis history.
For Novak Djokovic meanwhile the result raises questions about Novak Djokovic’s ability to continue competing.
At 39 the physical demands of Grand Slam tennis have become an important factor, particularly in long matches played in difficult conditions for Novak Djokovic.
The loss also ends what had been another opportunity for Novak Djokovic to add to his Grand Slam record.
Than another chapter of triumph at Flushing Meadows the tournament has produced one of the most unexpected early exits of Novak Djokovic’s career.
For Mariano Navone the night will be remembered differently.
The Argentine entered the match as the lower‑ranked player. Left the court having defeated a 24‑time Grand Slam champion on one of tennis’s biggest stages. Newscard
His victory serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of sport, where experience and reputation can be outweighed by physical readiness, determination and performance on the day.
As Novak Djokovic walked away from the court visibly emotional the significance of the moment was clear.
One of tennis’s champions had suffered an unprecedented early exit, at the US Open while an Argentine underdog had produced a career‑defining performance that will be remembered long after the tournament concludes.