Physical Breakdown Derails Novak Djokovic’s US Open Campaign
Throughout the match, Djokovic was visibly struggling. He vomited on court, battled severe cramps and repeatedly fought through pain as his physical condition worsened
XtraTime Newsdesk: Novak Djokovic has built his career on surviving the impossible. But on a painful night at the US Open, even one of tennis’ greatest fighters could not overcome what his own body was putting him through.
The Serbian great suffered a stunning first-round defeat to Argentina’s Mariano Navone, losing 7-6(5), 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1 in a marathon lasting four hours and 36 minutes. But the scoreline only told part of the story.
Throughout the match, Djokovic was visibly struggling. He vomited on court, battled severe cramps and repeatedly fought through pain as his physical condition worsened. At one stage, the 39-year-old appeared to be losing control of a match he had once looked capable of winning.
After the defeat, Djokovic admitted that the physical battle had become overwhelming.
“Vomiting, throwing up, a serious issue there. Then my whole body starts to collapse, basically cramping and pain,” he said.
The pain eventually spread to his back and shoulder, leaving him unable to produce the kind of tennis that has defined his legendary career.
For Djokovic, it was an unusually heartbreaking sight. A man known for his extraordinary endurance was left fighting not just an opponent, but his own body.
The defeat marked his earliest Grand Slam exit in 20 years, bringing an end to another bid for a record 25th major title.