Novak Djokovic exits US Open in first round due to illness
Novak Djokovic was defeated in the first round of the US Open by Mariano Navone in five sets, marking his earliest Grand Slam exit in 20 years. The 48th-ranked Argentine won 7-6 7/5, 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1, ending Djokovic's bid for a 25th Grand Slam title and his streak of 78 Grand Slam first-round victories. Djokovic, who is 39, reported feeling unwell on court, experiencing vomiting, cramps, and pain, stating his back and shoulder gave out. He took medication and a medical timeout during the match. Despite taking a 2-1 lead in the fourth set, Navone won the next five games to force a decider. Navone then took a 3-0 lead in the fifth set, ultimately securing the win. Djokovic, a four-time US Open champion, had not previously lost before the third round at Flushing Meadows and had shown signs of physical struggle in a prior tournament. In other matches, Jessica Pegula advanced after defeating Elena-Gabriela Ruse 6-3, 6-2, and Daniil Medvedev won against Hugo Gaston 6-4, 6-2, 6-4. Dino Prizmic and Jaume Munar also secured victories in dramatic five-set matches.
