Novak Djokovic‘s chase for a record 25th Grand Slam title came to a shocking end at the US Open 2026. The former World No. 1 lost to Argentina’s Mariano Navone in a five-set battle at Arthur Ashe Stadium on Monday.
Djokovic looked in control after taking a 2-1 lead in sets and moving ahead in the fourth set. However, Navone fought back strongly and won the match 7-6(5), 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1.
The match lasted more than four and a half hours. Djokovic also struggled physically during the contest and vomited on court before receiving treatment for a lower-back problem.
How did Djokovic start the match?
Djokovic and Navone were involved in a close opening set. The Argentine managed to win the tie-break 7-5 and took the early lead. Djokovic, however, did not take long to respond. He raised his level in the second set and won it 7-5 to bring the match level.
The 39-year-old then continued his comeback in the third set. Djokovic won it 6-4 and moved within one set of completing the comeback.
Why did Djokovic struggle physically?
Djokovic’s physical problems became clear as the match went on. The hot and humid conditions at Arthur Ashe Stadium made things difficult for the Serbian star. During changeovers, he used ice packs around his neck and head as he tried to deal with the heat.
The situation became more serious in the third set when Djokovic went behind an advertising board and vomited.
Despite the problem, he returned to the court and continued the match. He also asked the crowd to keep supporting him as he tried to stay in the contest.
How did Navone fight back?
Navone did not allow Djokovic’s physical problems to distract him. The Argentine kept attacking from the baseline and made Djokovic work hard for every point. He took control of the fourth set and won it 6-2, forcing the match into a deciding fifth set.
Djokovic needed more medical help before the final set. He called for a medical timeout and received treatment for his lower back.
Could Djokovic make another comeback?
Djokovic has built his career on fighting until the final point, and he once again tried to stay in the match. After receiving treatment, he returned to the court and gave the chair umpire a thumbs-up. The Arthur Ashe crowd also continued to back him.
But this time, Djokovic could not find a way back. Navone quickly took control of the deciding set. He won it 6-1 and completed one of the biggest wins of his career.
What does the defeat mean for Djokovic?
The loss means Djokovic’s bid for a 25th Grand Slam title has ended in the first round of the US Open. The Serbian has already won 24 Grand Slam singles titles, but his future at the top level remains uncertain. He has previously suggested that the final stage of his career is approaching. Djokovic still plans to compete at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games, but the first-round loss at the US Open will raise more questions about how much longer he will continue playing.
As Djokovic left Arthur Ashe Stadium, the crowd stood up to applaud the 39-year-old after a long and difficult battle.
For Navone, the win was a major moment. For Djokovic, it was another reminder that the final chapter of his remarkable career may be getting closer.