Novak Djokovic’s latest attempt to win a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam came to a shocking end after he lost in five sets to Argentine Mariano Navone at the US Open.
The 39-year-old went down 7-6 (7-5), 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1 to the world No. 49.
The match lasted four hours and 36 minutes — the longest opening match of a Grand Slam in Djokovic’s career and his earliest exit at a major since the 2006 Australian Open.
Navone ended the Serbian’s bid for a fifth US Open title as he struggled with physical problems in oppressive humidity.
“I didn’t enjoy myself,” Djokovic said.
“I think it was obvious that it was an awful feeling on the court for me.
“It’s something that I’ve been carrying, unfortunately, pretty much every match this year. Vomiting, throwing up, a serious issue there. Then my whole body started to collapse, basically cramping and pain.
“The back just gave up in the end, and my shoulder, and I couldn’t close it out. Can the issue be fixed? I don’t know. I’m trying, man. I’m trying. Let’s see,” he stated.