Novak Djokovic suffers a stunning defeat to Mariano Navone, marking his first opening-round Grand Slam loss since 2006.
Novak Djokovic suffered a stunning first-round defeat at the US Open 2026, losing to Argentina’s Mariano Navone in a dramatic five-set battle. The defeat marked Djokovic’s first opening-round loss at a Grand Slam since 2006.
Djokovic appeared to be in control after taking a 2-1 lead in sets, but Navone fought back strongly to win the final two sets 6-2 and 6-1. The Argentine eventually completed a remarkable 7-6(5), 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1 victory.
The match lasted four hours and 36 minutes, making it Djokovic’s longest Grand Slam opening match. The 39-year-old struggled physically during the contest and was visibly affected by cramping and other physical problems.
For Navone, the victory represents one of the biggest wins of his career. The Argentine showed remarkable resilience against one of tennis’s most successful players and stayed composed as Djokovic’s physical problems increased.
The defeat is particularly significant because Djokovic had never previously lost in the opening round of the US Open. It also represents his earliest Grand Slam exit in two decades.
The result has inevitably raised questions about Djokovic’s future at the highest level, although the 24-time Grand Slam champion has repeatedly demonstrated throughout his career that he can overcome difficult periods.
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