Novak Djokovic’s US Open run ends in gruelling first-round battle with Mariano Navone

Novak Djokovic was knocked out of the US Open in the first round by Argentina’s Mariano Navone after a marathon contest lasting four hours and 36 minutes.

The 39-year-old Serbian, a four-time champion in New York, lost 7-6, 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1 to Navone, who is ranked 49th in the world.

It was the biggest victory of Navone’s career and made him only the second Argentine player to eliminate Djokovic from one of tennis’ four Grand Slam tournaments. Guillermo Coria was the first, defeating Djokovic in 2005.

Djokovic had arrived at Flushing Meadows with a formidable record in the opening round. He had won 19 consecutive first-round matches at the US Open, while his record against the leading players of the sport in Grand Slam first rounds stood at 37 victories without defeat.

The result therefore represented one of the most significant surprises of the tournament so far.

Djokovic made the stronger start and took the third set to move ahead in the match, but Navone gradually turned the contest in his favour. The Argentine took advantage as Djokovic’s physical energy declined, with the Serbian again appearing to struggle during a demanding summer on the American hard-court circuit.

The defeat came after Djokovic was also eliminated in the opening round of the Cincinnati Masters. He lost there to another Argentine, Thiago Agustin Tirante, before suffering an even more damaging early exit in New York.

For Djokovic, the defeat means he is out of a Grand Slam tournament after just one match. It also prompted speculation about whether this could be his final appearance at the US Open, or even one of his last matches at Flushing Meadows.

Navone said the victory was difficult to comprehend after completing the five-set battle against one of the sport’s greatest players.

“It is unbelievable, and it means a lot to me. Winning in five sets against this veteran is not something that happens every day,” said the Argentine.

He also spoke of his satisfaction at overcoming Djokovic on a court where the Serbian has enjoyed some of the defining moments of his career.

“It is a dream, and now I have to recover, sleep and prepare,” Navone added, reflecting the physical demands of the contest.

Djokovic’s departure from the tournament ended with an emotional farewell to the New York crowd. Before leaving the court, he took time to sign souvenirs for supporters, a gesture that added to the sense that his latest US Open campaign may have marked the end of an era.

Navone, however, will have little opportunity to celebrate the most important win of his career. He is due to play his next match in two days against the winner of the meeting between Switzerland’s Stanislas Wawrinka and Italy’s Matteo Berrettini.