Lagatar24 Desk
24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic of Serbia was knocked out of the US Open in the very first round on Monday, losing to Argentina’s Mariano Navone in a gruelling five-set battle lasting 4 hours and 36 minutes, going down 7-6, 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1, missing out on a chance at his 25th Grand Slam title.
Djokovic Fights Back Before Navone Seals Victory
The 39-year-old Djokovic mounted a strong comeback after losing the opening set, winning the next two consecutive sets. However, 25-year-old Navone staged a remarkable turnaround in the final two sets to seal the win, as Djokovic’s physical condition began deteriorating in the closing stages of the match.
Djokovic Reveals Ongoing Physical Struggles
Djokovic was unable to hold back his emotions following the defeat, revealing that persistent physical issues had severely affected his ability to complete matches this year, describing recurring bouts of vomiting, cramps and pain in nearly every match he had played this season. He explained that vomiting was a serious problem, after which his entire body would begin to struggle, particularly due to cramps and pain.
Djokovic Admits He Considered Retiring from the Match
Djokovic acknowledged that given the severity of his condition, he had considered withdrawing from the match altogether. However, moments of recovery and his refusal to give up ultimately motivated him to continue playing.
Djokovic Thanks Crowd for Their Support
Expressing gratitude to the crowd, Djokovic said they had tried to lift his spirits during crucial moments of the match, adding that he regretted not being able to perform as well as he had hoped, or as well as he wanted to for them. He said the love and appreciation shown by the crowd in the end had genuinely touched him.
