Aging Legends Face Uncertain Futures After US Open Losses
Novak Djokovic said he's struggled with a health issue all year.
New York - Novak Djokovic's and Venus Williams' tennis careers are questioned following their unexpected first-round defeats at the US Open on opening day. Djokovic, the five-time Grand Slam champion, faced a prolonged five-set loss to world No. 49 Mariano Navone at Arthur Ashe Stadium. The 39-year-old appeared unwell throughout the match, vomiting multiple times and using an inhaler during breaks.
Djokovic admitted to battling health issues throughout the year, with his Cincinnati Open first-round loss also attributed to health problems aggravated by heat and humidity. He expressed uncertainty about his future in the sport, stating, "I don't know. I'm trying, man. I'm trying. Let's see."
Meanwhile, 46-year-old Venus Williams suffered a straight-sets loss to 27-year-old Sofia Kenin, extending her losing streak to 15 matches. The older player had not won since returning to singles play last July, when she defeated Peyton Stearns at the DC Open. Williams, who was the oldest player to win a match in over two decades at the US Open, will compete in doubles alongside her sister Serena, whose team has secured a wild card entry.
Williams dismissed concerns about her future, focusing on doubles and citing the late start time for her US Open match as a factor needing improvement.
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