Djokovic stunned by Navone in US Open first round, ends 20-year record

At Arthur Ashe Stadium, Djokovic showed his trademark resilience despite his physical distress. After losing a tight first-set tie-break 7-6(5), he fought back to win the next two sets 7-5 and 6-4. However, his body eventually betrayed him. He required treatment on his lower back and suffered cramps, allowing World No. 49 Navone to take the fourth set 6-2 and force a decider. Exhausted, Djokovic lost the final set 6-1 and crashed out of the event.

The match was a brutal physical ordeal from the start. Djokovic, who had spoken before the tournament about feeling prepared, looked far from his best. He was seen vomiting multiple times courtside during the third set and required treatment for back and shoulder issues. He had previously revealed he is dealing with a health condition that is exacerbated by heat and humidity.

Speaking after the match, an emotional Djokovic said, “It was obvious that it was an awful feeling on the court for me. It’s something that I’ve been carrying, unfortunately, pretty much every match this year… vomiting, throwing up, serious issue there. Then my whole body starts to collapse, basically cramping and pain”. Despite the pain, he said he didn’t want to give up: “I wanted to finish the match”. Meanwhile, a stunned Navone called it “a dream come true” and said he would face the winner of the match between Stan Wawrinka and Matteo Berrettini in the second round.