Novak Djokovic’s U.S. Open campaign came to a shockingly abrupt end.
The 24-time Grand Slam singles champion was beaten in the first round at Arthur Ashe Stadium on Sunday night, falling to 25-year-old Mariano Navone in a five-set battle, 6-7, 7-5, 6-4, 2-6, 1-6.
Djokovic appeared unwell throughout the match, which lasted more than four hours. During the third set, the broadcast showed him vomiting on court, and after the fourth he took a medical timeout to receive treatment on his back.
After dropping the opening set, Djokovic seemed to rediscover both his rhythm and energy, taking the next two. But the momentum faded quickly as he struggled through the fourth set and looked visibly drained and in pain during the decisive fifth.
Navone, currently ranked No. 49 in the world, capitalized fully against the No. 4 seed, who had reached last year’s semifinals before losing to Carlos Alcaraz.