Djokovic Falls to Navone in US Open Round One

60 sourcesUpdated Aug 31, 2026

Novak Djokovic exited the US Open in the first round after an extended five-set loss to unseeded Mariano Navone, with Navone securing a 7-6(5), 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1 victory in four hours and 36 minutes. Navone, ranked world No. 49, delivered the upset on the sport’s biggest stage, claiming the biggest win of his career. Djokovic's performance faded late, aided by persistent back and shoulder issues that prompted medical timeouts as well as on-court vomiting, cramping, and tears. The match tested Djokovic’s longevity as he approaches 40, fueling talk about his form and ongoing physical concerns this season. There are reports that Djokovic could drop out of the top 10 after the US Open, ending a decade-long top-10 run dating back to 2018. Analysts question whether the veteran may consider retirement if his condition does not improve.

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Roger Federer will be inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in Newport, reflecting on his career and his broader impact on the sport beyond titles, including helping grow prize money and better conditions for players. Ahead of the induction, he enjoyed a sentimental US Open tribute week and a reappraisal of his legacy, while the event also spotlighted his partnerships and the sport’s enduring popularity.

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Navone Upends Djokovic in US Open Opener

Novak Djokovic’s bid for a record 25th major collapsed with a historic first-round exit at the US Open, as he battled illness, vomiting and extreme fatigue before losing in five to Mariano Navone, with tears on court and his family watching in New York. The marathon match underscored Djokovic’s fragile health and Navone’s upset victory in what was his longest first-round major match in the Open era.

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