Djokovic suffers shock first round exit at US Open

Novak Djokovic suffered a surprising first round elimination at the US Open on Sunday, marking his earliest Grand Slam exit in over two decades. Argentine Mariano Navone triumphed 7-6 (7/5), 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1, ending Djokovic's record 78 straight first-round wins at Grand Slams dating back to 2006. The Serbian champion vomited on court and faced late-match cramps and back pain, phenomena he's been battling throughout this year.

Djokovic, who had reached the Australian Open final and Wimbledon semi-finals this year, admitted he's currently unable to advance deep into tournaments and isn't sure how to rectify the situation. Despite his struggles, Djokovic momentarily gained control when he broke Navone for a 2-1 lead in the fourth set with a powerful backhand winner.

However, Navone swiftly capitalized on the opportunity, winning the next five games to secure a 5-2 lead in that set and force a fifth set. Djokovic took a medical timeout before the deciding set, receiving a massage and medication. But Navone dominated the tiebreaker, reaching 5-2 and ultimately winning the match. Ecstatic Navone hailed his mental fortitude as the key to his victory, while Djokovic expressed gratitude for the crowd's support throughout the grueling encounter.

Meanwhile, South African player Lloyd Harris secured his second-round berth with a 6-4, 6-2, 6-2 win over American teenager Jack Kennedy.