Djokovic’s 25th Major dream ends in shock US Open exit

NEW YORK: Novak Djokovic’s bid for a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title came to a stunning end with a first-round defeat to Argentina’s Mariano Navone at Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Djokovic led by two sets to one and had a break advantage before Navone fought back to take the fourth set 6-2. The gruelling five-set battle saw Djokovic struggle physically, with the Serbian even vomiting on court during the contest.

Navone held his nerve to complete a remarkable comeback, defeating Djokovic 7-6(5), 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1 and sending the 2026 US Open campaign of the 24-time Grand Slam champion crashing to an early end.