Djokovic Suffers First US Open First-Round Loss to Navone

Mariano Navone produced the biggest upset of his career by beating Novak Djokovic in the first round of the US Open, ending a record that had stood since the Serbian first played the tournament in 2005.

The 25-year-old Argentine, ranked 49th in the ATP rankings, won 7-6 (7-5), 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1 after four hours and 36 minutes. The match ended around midnight in New York. Djokovic had won the US Open four times and had not lost in the opening round of a Grand Slam since the 2006 Australian Open.

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It is surely the best I have ever felt on a court. This incredible court, the biggest stage, is incredible.

Physical problems shaped the contest. Djokovic received medical attention and medication during the first set, applied ice to his face and neck, and vomited several times, including during the third set. He fought on after falling behind and tried to keep alive his pursuit of a record 25th Grand Slam title.

Navone struggled to take in the achievement. “It is surely the best I have ever felt on a court. This incredible court, the biggest stage, is incredible,” he said. “The way we played five sets against the GOAT, I am very happy.” Djokovic had entered New York after losing to another Argentine, Thiago Tirante, at the Cincinnati Masters, where he also appeared limited by heat and humidity. World No. 1 Jannik Sinner missed the tournament through injury, while Carlos Alcaraz was due to return after four months out.

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The way we played five sets against the GOAT, I am very happy.