Djokovic in tears during US Open first-round exit
Novak Djokovic suffered a rare first-round exit at the US Open, losing to Mariano Navone in a match marked by physical struggle and emotional distress. The defeat marks a significant milestone in the 39-year-old's career as he faces increasing challenges due to age.
Why it matters
The loss of a 24-time Grand Slam champion in the opening round signals a potential turning point in professional tennis history.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Novak Djokovic had won all of his previous 19 US Open first-round matches
BBC Sport tennis news reporter Published 31 August 2026, 05:16 BST Updated 53 minutes ago Novak Djokovic broke down in tears during a US Open first-round defeat by Argentina's Mariano Navone which provided further evidence age is fast catching up with the 39-year-old great.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion was overcome by emotion in the deciding set of a dramatic match where he struggled physically throughout and had to vomit into a towel bin.
Djokovic, seeded fourth, showed the fight for which he has always been renowned before succumbing to a 7-6 (7-5) 5-7 4-6 6-2 6-1 loss in a humid New York.
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