US Open 2026 results: Novak Djokovic's tearful exit leaves tennis great's future more uncertain than ever
Novak Djokovic suffered a disappointing first-round exit at the 2026 US Open, leading to speculation about the future of his tennis career. The 39-year-old expressed deep frustration with his performance and physical state during the match.
Why it matters
As one of the greatest athletes in history, Djokovic's decline marks a significant transition point in professional tennis.
Figure caption, Djokovic overcome with emotion during US Open loss
Be warned: Novak Djokovic has made a fool of those who have doubted him before.
Some questioned if the Serb would challenge for the sport's top honours again after he dropped out of the world's top 20 amid a two-year major title drought in 2018.
Djokovic proceeded to win four of the following five Grand Slams, doubling his tally of majors with 12 across the next six years.
But three years have now passed since he landed his men's record 24th major title at the US Open.
And, as the 39-year-old fought back tears mid-match on Sunday night, this latest loss in New York felt different.
Staring at a first opening-round Grand Slam exit since 2006, one of sport's all-time greats simply had nothing left, beaten 7-6 (7-5) 5-7 4-6 6-2 6-1 by Argentina's Navone.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in