Djokovic Breaks Down in US Open First-Round Loss
Novak Djokovic's first-round US Open loss to Mariano Navone ended a 20-year streak of reaching the second round at majors.
The Update
Novak Djokovic suffered a stunning first-round exit at the 2026 US Open, falling to Argentina’s Mariano Navone in five sets. The 24-time Grand Slam champion, 39, lost 7-6 (5), 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1. Djokovic became visibly emotional during the match, with sources reporting tears as he held serve late in the fifth set. He described the physical experience as ‘not enjoyable’ and ‘something I despised.’
Why It Matters
This marks Djokovic’s first opening-round defeat at a Grand Slam event since 2006, ending a streak of 20 consecutive years of reaching at least the second round. The loss also means Djokovic will fall outside the Top 10 in the ATP rankings. The match lasted 4 hours and 35 minutes, with Navone winning 11 of the last 12 games to secure the victory.
What to Watch
Observers will be watching Djokovic’s health updates following the match. Djokovic had a medical timeout for a back issue before the fifth set, and sources note he vomited courtside several times during the later stages of the match.
Sources
- Last Word on Sports — Djokovic's emotional reaction and the significance of the loss for his ranking.
- espn.com — Match score, duration, Djokovic's quotes, and medical timeout details.