Novak Djokovic suffers shock first-round US Open defeat against Mariano Navone

At the US Open, world No. 49 Mariano Navone pulled off a stunning upset by defeating Novak Djokovic 7-6(5), 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1 in a grueling encounter played in front of 23,000 fans. The 25-year-old underdog capitalized on his opponent's physical collapse during a punishing 4-hour and 36-minute battle. Navone entered the contest with a dismal 0-4 record in five-set matches, yet managed to turn the tide against one of the greatest players in tennis history. Jelena Djokovic watched the dramatic drama unfold anxiously from the player's box as the physical toll on the court became increasingly apparent.

The defeat marked Novak Djokovic's first-ever opening-round loss at Flushing Meadows and in New York, completely shattering an unblemished 19-0 first-round record at the tournament. It also represented his earliest Grand Slam exit in 20 years, dating back to the 2006 Australian Open. Throughout the grueling match, Djokovic suffered from severe dehydration, vomited into a courtside bin, and required a medical timeout for lower-back and shoulder issues. His struggles compounded into 70 unforced errors and 10 double faults. Reflecting on his physical breakdown, Novak Djokovic stated: "Vomiting, throwing up, a serious issue there… Then my whole body starts to collapse, basically cramping and pain. The back just gave up in the end and shoulder, and I couldn’t close it out."

The historic victory leaves a profound mark on the tournament and highlights the brutal physical demands of elite Grand Slam competition. For the veteran champion, the loss underscores a frustrating stretch of matches marred by physical ailments, as Novak Djokovic admitted: "I didn’t enjoy myself. 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." Meanwhile, a jubilant Mariano Navone savored the career-defining triumph, remarking: "It’s amazing. The way we played, five sets against the GOAT. I’m very happy." As Navone advances to the next round, Djokovic faces a difficult recovery period and questions regarding his long-term fitness.