Novak Djokovic Loses in First Round at US Open for First Time Ever After Vomiting Mid-Match | Just Jared

August 31, 2026 August 31, 2026

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Novak Djokovic loses at US Open — Credit: Getty

Novak Djokovic suffered a shocking loss in his first round match at the 2026 US Open.

The 39-year-old tennis player, who has 24 Grand Slam titles to his name, lost to Mariano Navone during the first round on Sunday (August 30) at USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York City.

Novak lost to the 25-year-old Argentine player in a 4.5 hour match, 7-6 (5), 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1.

Novak Djokovic loses at US Open to Mariano Navone

Novak Djokovic suffered physical issues during the match

In an interview after the match, Novak revealed what was happening to him.

“I didn’t enjoy myself,” he said (via ESPN). “I think it was obvious that it was an awful feeling on the court for me.”

There was even a medical timeout between the fourth and fifth sets.

“It’s something that I’ve been carrying, unfortunately, pretty much every match this year: vomiting, throwing up, a serious issue there,” he added. “Then my whole body starts to collapse, basically cramping and pain. Yeah, the back just gave up in the end, and shoulder, and I couldn’t close it out.”

This is Novak’s first loss in the first round at the US Open

Novak has never lost in the first round at the US Open before. This was his 21st time playing in the tournament.

“Just struggled all the way since the fourth game of the match,” he said (via ESPN). “When it comes to match itself and overall feeling of how I felt with body and playing, it was really not enjoyable. I pretty much despised every moment that I spent on the court for that.”