Novak Djokovic receives more bad news after shocking US Open vs. Mariano Navone

Novak Djokovic has been dealt another major blow after a stunning first-round defeat to Mariano Navon at the US Open, with the Serb falling out of the ATP top 10 for the first time in eight years.

The 39-year-old experienced his first Grand Slam exit in more than 20 years, lost 7-6(5), 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1 to the unseeded Argentine in a four-hour, 36-minute battle at Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Defeat will also end the Extraordinary Era. Djokovic has been in the ATP top 10 since 2018, but his latest loss means he will drop out of the elite group in the rankings, which will be released on September 14.

For the first time in almost 24 years, the men’s top 10 will remain without any member of the legendary big three – Djokovic, Roger Federer or Rafael Nadal. The last ATP top 10 without any of the trio was published on October 7, 2002, before Djokovic had even established himself on the professional circuit.

For Djokovic, the numbers underline how significant this moment is. His longevity at the top was one of the defining achievements of his career, so his impending departure is yet another sign of how dramatically the landscape of men’s tennis has changed.

DJOKOVIC FIGHTED, BUT THE BODY GAVE UP

Djokovic’s defeat wasn’t just a case of Navone overwhelming him from start to finish.

After losing the opening set, the Serb initially fought brilliantly, winning the third and taking a 2-1 lead. However, his physical condition deteriorated greatly as the competition progressed. During the match, he threw up, battled cramps and pain, and received treatment for back and shoulder problems.

Djokovic was even a break ahead in the fourth set, but could not maintain his level. Navone took control and won the final two sets 6-2, 6-1 to complete the biggest victory of his career.

The loss also ended Djokovic’s pursuit of a record 25th Grand Slam title and marked his first opening-round defeat at a major since the 2006 Australian Open.

It was a career-defining night for Navone. For Djokovic, it was another painful reminder that experience and reputation can no longer guarantee survival at the biggest tournaments.

– The end

Issued by:

sabyasachi chowdhury

Published on:

31 Aug 2026 21:03 IST