Novak Djokovic's pursuit of a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title came to an abrupt and emotional end on the opening day of the US Open, as Argentine qualifier Mariano Navone delivered one of the tournament's biggest shocks by defeating the veteran Serbian in a gruelling five-set marathon.
Playing in his longest first-round match of any Grand Slam tournament, the 39-year-old Djokovic succumbed 7-6 (7-5) 5-7 4-6 6-2 6-1 to world No 49 Navone in a contest that tested both players' physical and mental reserves across nearly four hours on court.
The result represents a stunning upset at Flushing Meadows, where Djokovic had arrived with genuine hopes of capturing his 25th major title. Jannik Sinner's withdrawal from the US Open due to a right knee injury had opened the door for Djokovic, Alcaraz, Zverev and others to compete for the title, with the men's draw beginning on 30 August 2026.
Navone's breakthrough victory marks a significant moment in the Argentine's career, as he overcomes one of tennis's greatest champions in a first-round encounter that will be remembered as one of the tournament's standout performances.
The defeat marks a disappointing conclusion to Djokovic's US Open campaign and raises questions about his competitive future at the highest level of professional tennis.
The US Open is live on Sky Sports from August 30, with comprehensive coverage available across multiple platforms. Fans can stream tennis with no contract on NOW and the Sky Sports App, while the Laver Cup at The O2 in London will take place from 25-27 September, also broadcast live on Sky Sports.
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