Novak Djokovic’s Surprising Early Exit at the 2026 U.S. Open

Novak Djokovic, a celebrated tennis legend known for winning 24 Grand Slam titles, faced an unexpected setback at the U.S. Open. On Sunday night, he was surprisingly eliminated in the first round of the 2026 tournament.

Djokovic lost in straight sets to Mariano Navone from Argentina with scores of 7-6 (5), 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1. Djokovic’s loss marked a significant moment in his career, as he had never previously exited the tournament in the first round.

Novak Djokovic of Serbia reacts during the first round of the U.S. Open tennis championships against Mariano Navone of Argentina on Sunday, Aug. 30, 2026, in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)

At 39 years old, Djokovic struggled during the match, recording 10 double faults and committing 70 unforced errors. In the aftermath of the defeat, he revealed he was battling various physical ailments.

“It’s something that I’ve been carrying, unfortunately, pretty much every match this year: vomiting, throwing up, a serious issue there,” Djokovic stated. “Then my whole body starts to collapse, basically cramping and pain. Yeah, the back just gave up in the end and shoulder, and I couldn’t close it out.”

Despite entering the competition as the fourth seed and having previously won the U.S. Open three times, Djokovic’s efforts to regain control of the match ultimately fell short.

Novak Djokovic of Serbia gestures to the crowd after losing to Mariano Navone of Argentina during the first round of the U.S. Open tennis championships on Aug. 30, 2026, in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)

Djokovic’s Challenges

The physical challenges Djokovic experienced were evident as he described his performance as being difficult since the fourth game. He expressed dissatisfaction with his body’s condition and his overall enjoyment.

“Just struggled all the way since the fourth game of the match,” Djokovic reflected. “When it comes to the match itself and overall feeling of how I felt with (my) body and playing, it was really not enjoyable. I pretty much despised every moment that I spent on the court for that.”

Mariano Navone’s Triumph

For Mariano Navone, defeating his childhood idol Djokovic was bittersweet. He spoke about the challenging nature of playing against one of his heroes.

“(It) was very tough for me because you are playing with the ‘GOAT’ on this court,” Navone remarked. “For sure it’s the best thing I’ve had on court. This is an amazing court and the biggest stage. It’s amazing, the way we play. I mean, five sets. … I’m very happy. I don’t know. What can I say?”

Mariano Navone of Argentina celebrates after defeating Novak Djokovic of Serbia during the first round of the U.S. Open tennis championships Sunday, Aug. 30, 2026, in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)

Navone, aged 25, captured his first ATP title earlier in Romania this year, adding to his burgeoning career.

The Associated Press contributed to this report. Ryan Gaydos is a senior editor for Fox News Digital.