Tennis legend, Novak Djokovic experienced a historic setback at the US Open on Sunday night, suffering his first-ever opening-round loss at Flushing Meadows after falling to Argentina's Mariano Navone.
The 39-year-old fourth seed succumbed 7-6 (5), 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1 in a grueling five-set battle at Arthur Ashe Stadium that spanned four hours and 36 minutes.
The defeat marks Djokovic's earliest exit from any Grand Slam tournament in 20 years, dating back to the 2006 Australian Open. Visible physical distress plagued the 24-time Grand Slam champion throughout the night.
Djokovic battled vomiting and severe cramping, requiring medical attention, medication, and lower back treatment between sets.
The Serbian committed 70 unforced errors in the match. "I didn’t enjoy myself," Djokovic admitted post-match.
"I think it was obvious that it was an awful feeling on the court for me. It's something that I've been carrying, unfortunately, pretty much every match this year: vomiting, throwing up, a serious issue there. Then my whole body starts to collapse, basically cramping and pain. Yeah, the back just gave up in the end and shoulder, and I couldn’t close it out."
After surging to early leads in the opening set, Djokovic lost his rhythm, eventually dropping the tiebreak before fighting back to take the second and third sets.
However, the physical toll proved too great as the 25-year-old Navone dominated the final two sets to secure the biggest victory of his career.
"It was very tough for me because you are playing with the 'GOAT' on this court," Navone said following his first career five-set victory.
"For sure it’s the best thing I’ve had on court. This is an amazing court and the biggest stage."
The loss follows an early exit at Cincinnati earlier in August and raises questions regarding Djokovic's future on the tour, with the legend noting he is evaluating how much further his body can take the physical strain.
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