Djokovic Crashes Out of US Open as Retirement Questions Emerge

Novak Djokovic’s bid for a record 25th Grand Slam title has come to an abrupt end after the 24-time major champion suffered a stunning first-round defeat at the 2026 US Open.

The 39-year-old Serbian was beaten by Argentina’s Mariano Navone in a gruelling five-set battle, losing 7-6(5), 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1 in a match that lasted four hours and 36 minutes. It was Djokovic’s earliest Grand Slam exit since 2006 and his first-ever first-round defeat at the US Open.

The defeat was made even more concerning by Djokovic’s physical condition during the match.The tennis legend was seen struggling with vomiting, cramping, back pain and shoulder problems. His movement and serve deteriorated as the match progressed, particularly in the final two sets.

Despite taking a two-sets-to-one lead, Djokovic was unable to maintain his level physically, allowing Navone to take control and complete one of the biggest victories of his career.

For Navone, the victory was a landmark moment. The Argentine described defeating Djokovic as a dream come true and celebrated what he called an extraordinary experience against one of the greatest players in tennis history.

The defeat has inevitably sparked fresh speculation about Djokovic’s future. At 39, the Serbian star has faced recurring physical problems throughout the 2026 season, and his latest US Open performance has intensified questions about whether he can continue competing at the highest level.

Djokovic has not announced his retirement, however. Reports say he still believes he can compete at a top level when healthy, meaning talk of an immediate retirement remains speculation rather than a confirmed decision.

His future could become one of the biggest storylines in tennis as the season continues. Djokovic remains the men’s record-holder with 24 Grand Slam singles titles, along with numerous other records that have cemented his place among tennis’ greatest players.

But his latest defeat raises a difficult question: how much longer can his body keep up with the demands of elite tennis? The Serbian has already spoken about wanting to continue playing, with the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics previously viewed as a possible career endpoint. But after another physically demanding Grand Slam, that timeline could change.