Four-time US Open champion Novak Djokovic ousted in first round by Mariano Navone
The 2026 US Open defeat ended Novak Djokovic's streak of 78 consecutive opening-round wins at a Grand Slam.
Novak Djokovic, a four-time US Open champion, was eliminated in the first round by Mariano Navone. The 39-year-old tennis star, who has won four US Open titles, including his last in 2023, appeared lethargic and disinterested throughout his match at Arthur Ashe Stadium. Djokovic lost 7-6(5), 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1, ending his 78-match winning streak in the first round of Grand Slam tournaments.
This marks his first loss in two US Open matches, following a 37-match winning streak in that tournament. The four-hour, 36-minute match saw Djokovic dominate the first set, but Navone took control in the second and won the third set with a breakthrough. Despite Navone's strong play, he could not capitalize on Djokovic's numerous unforced errors.
Djokovic's exit leaves questions about his health lingering, particularly after he vomited during the third set against Navone. Navone, who made history by becoming the first man to be seeded in his Grand Slam main draw debut at the French Open in 2024, will face the winner of Matteo Berrettini and Stan Wawrinka in the second round on September 2.
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- Djokovic breaks down in tears during US Open first-round exit sports.yahoo.com
- Djokovic breaks down in tears during US Open first-round exit adomonline.com
- US Open: Novak Djokovic out in first round of a Grand Slam for first time in 20 years thenationalnews.com
- Djokovic stunned by Navone in US Open first round, ends 20-year record indianexpress.com
- Djokovic breaks down in tears during US Open first-round exit bbc.co.uk
