Djokovic Falls to Navone in US Open Round One

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.