Novak Djokovic eliminated in US Open first round

Novak Djokovic was sensationally eliminated from the US Open in the first round after a five-set defeat to Mariano Navone, ranked 49th in the world. The final score was 7-6(5), 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1, with the match lasting over four and a half hours. Djokovic, currently ranked 5th, suffered from persistent physical distress throughout the encounter, including multiple instances of vomiting on the court and visible emotional fatigue during the fifth set.

This loss marks a historic low for the 39-year-old athlete, who has not faced a first-round exit at a Grand Slam in 20 years. The defeat will result in Djokovic falling out of the ATP Top 10 for the first time in eight years. Despite his early exit, the Serbian player will receive $140,000 in prize money due to updated tournament financial policies. Djokovic acknowledged his poor performance, stating that he has been dealing with recurring health issues throughout the year, which have significantly impacted his ability to compete at the highest level. The result further complicates his pursuit of a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title.