Novak Djokovic’s pursuit of a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title appears increasingly difficult after a demoralizing first-round exit at the US Open. The 39-year-old tennis icon was eliminated in a physical battle against Argentinian Mariano Navone, who secured a 7-6 (7/5), 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1 victory on Sunday night.
This defeat marks the first time in two decades that Djokovic has been knocked out of a major tournament in the opening round. The match at Arthur Ashe Stadium saw the Serb visibly struggling, eventually reduced to tears as the crowd attempted to rally behind him. Despite his physical limitations, Djokovic managed to overcome a one-set deficit to lead two sets to one before his body finally succumbed to the strain.
Reflecting on his performance, Djokovic revealed that he has been plagued by recurring health issues throughout 2026, including vomiting, cramping, and severe back and shoulder pain. “I’m trying, man, I’m trying,” he stated. “I’m just trying to address really what’s going on and how far I can go this way.” He noted that his back and shoulder ultimately gave out, preventing him from closing out the match.
It has been three years since Djokovic claimed his 24th Grand Slam title at the 2023 US Open. Since then, he has had 12 opportunities to surpass Margaret Court’s record, appearing in two finals and six semi-finals. While he came close earlier this year—reaching the Australian Open final and the Wimbledon semi-finals—his recent form has been inconsistent.
During his Wimbledon campaign, Djokovic expressed a desire to compete at the grass-court major at least once more, highlighted by an epic quarter-final victory over Felix Auger-Aliassime. However, his performance during the abbreviated US hardcourt season has lacked his signature brilliance. An early loss in Cincinnati, which he attributed to illness, was intended to help him prepare for Flushing Meadows, but the results did not follow.
For the 25-year-old Navone, the victory was a career-defining moment. “I don’t know what can I say more because Novak is the GOAT in this sport,” the Argentinian said. He shared that he grew up watching Djokovic compete in major tournaments, often staying up late before school to catch the matches, making the win particularly meaningful.
Djokovic admitted that he has found no solution to the symptoms that have hindered him for much of the year. As he looks toward the future, the tennis legend faces difficult questions about his physical capacity to continue competing at the highest level of the sport. The report also notes that djokovic, knocked out in the first round of a major for the first time in 20 years, said the vomiting, cramping and back pain that hindered him throughout were symptoms that had plagued him for much of the year — and so far he’s found no solution. The report also notes that you know, vomiting, throwing up, a serious issue there.
