ESPN • 8/31/2026
Novak Djokovic, the 39-year-old tennis player, faced a shocking upset in the first round of the US Open, marking the first time he has lost in the opening round of this tournament. He was defeated by unseeded Argentinian player Mariano Navone in a five-set match. This loss ends Djokovic's pursuit of a 25th Grand Slam title, a significant milestone in his career. The match concluded with Djokovic visibly emotional, exiting the tournament in tears and pain, highlighting the unexpected nature of his early exit from a major tournament. Djokovic's performance during the match was notably affected by physical issues. He experienced vomiting and struggled with back and shoulder problems, which hampered his serve, particularly towards the end of the contest. These ailments significantly impacted his ability to compete at his usual level, contrasting sharply with his previous performances where he has often been a dominant force in the sport. The defeat raises questions about Djokovic's current physical condition and his future in the tournament. His early exit is a rare occurrence in his competitive history, as he has typically advanced far in major tournaments. This match against Navone serves as a stark reminder of the challenges athletes face, particularly as they age and contend with physical limitations.
Advertisement
Stories gain Lindy status through source reputation, network consensus, and time survival.