Novak Djokovic Faces Shocking First-Round Exit at 2026 US Open
Djokovic's Unexpected Defeat
File image of Mariano Navone(Photo: @Mariamelx58/X)
New York, Aug 31: The 2026 US Open commenced on a disappointing note for Novak Djokovic, the most accomplished male player in Grand Slam history, as he suffered a shocking defeat in the men's singles on the tournament's opening day.
Mariano Navone stunned Djokovic in a thrilling five-set match on Monday (IST), marking the first time since 2006 that the 24-time Grand Slam champion exited in the opening round of a major tournament.
Navone triumphed with a score of 7-6(5), 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1 at Arthur Ashe Stadium, pulling ahead decisively in the last two sets as Djokovic appeared to struggle physically under the stadium's closed roof.
The fourth-seeded Djokovic, a four-time champion at the US Open, seemed out of rhythm during the four-hour and 36-minute match, which set a record for the longest first-round match in Grand Slam history.
Physical issues that had previously troubled the Serbian in a recent Cincinnati loss resurfaced, leaving him low on energy and unable to produce winners.
"It's amazing. The way we played, five sets against the GOAT," Navone expressed, as reported by the ATP Tour website. "I'm very happy. I don't know, what can I say?"
Despite Djokovic's historical prowess, having not lost in the first round of a major since the 2006 Australian Open, signs pointed to a potential victory for him. Even after losing a break advantage at 2-1 in the fourth set, he had a strong track record in five-set matches, boasting a 42-12 record compared to Navone's 0-4.
However, the 39-year-old Djokovic could not overcome the challenges. Throughout the lengthy match, he struggled with movement and even vomited multiple times. After winning his first game in the fifth set to trail 1-3, Djokovic was visibly emotional, tearing up as the crowd rallied behind him.
On match point, Navone managed to retrieve a drop volley and sent the ball into an open court before sharing a warm embrace with Djokovic at the net just before midnight. The ATP No. 1 Club member took a moment to sign autographs as he exited the court.
"It's unbelievable. It means a lot for me," Navone said about facing Djokovic, one of his idols, for the first time. "It's a dream come true, I mean seriously, 100 per cent. Now I have to recover. I think it's almost 12 o'clock, so we have to go to sleep."
With World No. 1 Jannik Sinner absent from the US Open due to injury and defending champion Carlos Alcaraz participating in his first tournament since April, Djokovic had a prime opportunity to chase his 25th major title. Instead, he exits New York after just one round.