How Novak Djokovic can still qualify for the ATP Finals despite shocking loss at the US Open
Novak Djokovic faces a challenging path to qualify for the 2026 ATP Finals following a surprise first-round exit at the US Open. The tennis star must now perform well in upcoming Masters tournaments to secure his spot among the top eight players.
Why it matters
Djokovic is one of the most decorated athletes in tennis history, and his potential absence from the year-end finals marks a significant shift in the sport's competitive landscape.
Novak Djokovic's first-round loss to Mariano Navone was perhaps the most shocking result of the 2026 US Open.
After endless talk of this being the 39-year-old's last chance to capture a 25th major, Djokovic lost to Navone , the world number 48, in round one at Flushing Meadows.
The Serb suffered his worst Grand Slam finish since 2006, with his streak of 77 consecutive first-round matches at majors won coming to an end.
With his loss, Djokovic exited the ATP top ten for the first time since 2018 and is now ranked 12th in the world.
It marked the first time since 2002 that none of Djokovic, Roger Federer or Rafael Nadal has been in the top ten.
Photo by CHARLY TRIBALLEAU / AFP via Getty Images
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