Djokovic Suffers Shock US Open First-Round Exit, Loses to Navone in Five Sets

Novak Djokovic’s pursuit of a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title suffered a stunning early setback after the Serbian great was knocked out of the US Open in the first round by Argentina’s Mariano Navone.

Navone, ranked 44th in the world, produced the biggest victory of his career to defeat the four-time US Open champion 7-6(5), 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1 in a gruelling battle that lasted four hours and 36 minutes at Arthur Ashe Stadium.

The defeat was particularly significant for Djokovic, who had not lost in the opening round of a Grand Slam since the 2006 Australian Open. It was only the third first-round defeat of his Grand Slam career and his earliest exit at the US Open.

Djokovic appeared to be in serious physical discomfort throughout the contest. The 39-year-old was seen vomiting on court and struggled with cramping, while reports also noted problems involving his back and shoulder. He received medical attention during the match but battled on despite his physical struggles.

Despite the problems, Djokovic appeared to have taken control after recovering from losing the opening set. He won the second and third sets to move within one set of victory.

However, Navone refused to buckle.

The Argentine responded by taking the fourth set 6-2 before racing into a 3-0 lead in the deciding set. Djokovic could not recover, as Navone maintained his composure and closed out the biggest win of his career 6-1.

Navone’s victory also made him only the second Argentine player to defeat Djokovic in a Grand Slam, following Guillermo Coria’s victory over the Serbian at the 2005 French Open.

For Djokovic, the defeat ends another attempt to claim a 25th major title and adds further questions about his ability to maintain his Grand Slam ambitions at 39.

The Serbian has endured physical difficulties during the 2026 season, and his latest defeat came after an early loss at the Cincinnati tournament. Following his US Open exit, Djokovic was visibly emotional, with tears appearing during the final set.

Navone, meanwhile, celebrated one of the most remarkable victories of his career.

“It’s amazing. The way we played, five sets against the GOAT,” Navone said after the match. “I’m very happy.”

The Argentine now advances to the second round, while Djokovic’s latest US Open campaign ends before it truly began in one of the most dramatic first-round upsets of his illustrious career.