In a stunning turn of events, Novak Djokovic was eliminated in the first round of the US Open, marking a significant moment in his illustrious career. The match against Mariano Navone was a grueling battle that lasted over four hours, during which Djokovic displayed remarkable resilience despite his physical limitations.

Initially, Djokovic seemed poised for victory, having rallied to take a 2-1 lead and even securing a break in the fourth set. However, the match took a dramatic turn as Navone fought back, winning the fourth set 6-2 and the fifth set 6-1, ultimately sealing the match with a score of 7-6 (7-5), 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1. This defeat not only signifies Djokovic's first-ever first-round exit at the US Open but also marks his first first-round loss in a Grand Slam event since the Australian Open in 2006.

Throughout the match, Djokovic struggled with severe fatigue and discomfort, which became increasingly evident as the match progressed. He lost all three games in the fifth set before managing to secure a single game, showcasing his determination to fight until the end. In a poignant moment, Djokovic was seen wiping away tears, trying to conceal his emotions from the audience.

After the match, Djokovic expressed his feelings of disappointment, stating, "It was a terrible feeling. Unfortunately, this has been an issue I've faced in most of my matches this year. Vomiting has been a serious problem for me." He elaborated on the physical toll the match took on him, mentioning cramps and pain that left him unable to continue effectively.

Despite the loss, Djokovic appreciated the support from the crowd, which he credited for motivating him during critical moments of the match. He expressed regret for not being able to perform to his expectations but felt touched by the audience's affection as he exited the court, thanking fans and signing autographs before heading to the locker room.