New York, Aug 2026 : Novak Djokovic’s bid for a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title suffered a stunning setback as the 24-time major champion was knocked out in the opening round of the 2026 US Open by Argentina’s Mariano Navone in a dramatic five-set battle.
The fourth-seeded Djokovic, a four-time US Open champion, went down 7-6(5), 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1 to Navone at Arthur Ashe Stadium in a marathon contest lasting four hours and 36 minutes. The defeat marked Djokovic’s first opening-round loss at a Grand Slam since the 2006 Australian Open.
Djokovic had appeared to have the experience and momentum required to overcome the challenge after recovering from losing the opening set and taking the next two. However, the 39-year-old Serbian struggled physically as the match progressed, allowing Navone to seize control in the final two sets.
The match became particularly difficult for Djokovic under the closed roof at Arthur Ashe Stadium. The Serbian appeared to have problems with his movement and energy and vomited several times during the contest. His physical struggles were reminiscent of the difficulties he experienced during his recent defeat in Cincinnati.
Navone, ranked well below Djokovic and facing the legendary Serbian for the first time, refused to be intimidated. The Argentine remained composed during the crucial stages and produced aggressive tennis when Djokovic began to fade.
The statistics had heavily favoured Djokovic going into the deciding set. He had a remarkable 42-12 record in five-set matches, while Navone had never won a five-set match in four previous attempts. The Argentine had also struggled on hard courts, carrying a 12-29 tour-level record on the surface.
Yet none of those numbers mattered as Navone dominated the final stages.
Djokovic briefly appeared to regain momentum early in the fifth set, but his physical condition deteriorated rapidly. After winning his opening game of the decider, he stood behind the baseline visibly emotional as the crowd attempted to lift him.
Navone eventually completed one of the biggest victories of his career. On match point, he chased down a drop volley and managed to guide the ball into the open court before celebrating at the net with Djokovic shortly before midnight.
“It’s amazing. The way we played, five sets against the GOAT. I’m very happy. I don’t know, what can I say?” Navone said after the victory.
The Argentine also described playing Djokovic as a dream come true, acknowledging the 24-time Grand Slam winner as one of his idols.
“It means a lot for me. It’s a dream come true, seriously, 100 per cent,” Navone said.
Djokovic, meanwhile, showed his sportsmanship despite the painful defeat. He embraced Navone at the net and stopped to sign autographs for fans as he left the court.
The early exit is particularly significant given the opportunities Djokovic had entering the tournament. World No. 1 Jannik Sinner is absent because of injury, while defending champion Carlos Alcaraz is returning to competitive action after a lengthy break.
With two major contenders facing uncertainty, Djokovic had been viewed as one of the leading candidates to challenge for another Grand Slam crown. Instead, his 2026 US Open campaign ended on the very first day.
Navone now moves into the second round with one of the most memorable victories of his career, while Djokovic faces fresh questions about his physical condition and his future at the Grand Slam level.
