NEW YORK — Novak Djokovic experienced a stunning early exit from the US Open on Saturday after falling in a grueling five-set contest against Argentina's Mariano Navone. The grueling encounter pushed both competitors to their physical limits at Flushing Meadows, culminating in the biggest triumph of Navone's professional career.

The dramatic match saw Djokovic battle through visible physical distress throughout the afternoon. The veteran champion required multiple medical interventions as his body struggled to keep pace with the demanding conditions on the court. Despite the mounting physical setbacks, the former world number one demonstrated his trademark resilience by erasing a two-set deficit to force a deciding frame.

Navone maintained his composure as the momentum shifted dramatically in the middle sets. The tactical approach employed by the Argentine remained disciplined and precise, even as Djokovic mounted his fierce comeback in front of a captivated crowd in New York. Navone capitalized on his opponent's fading physical reserves during the fifth set, sealing the historic win with steady baseline play.

The outcome marks a significant milestone for Navone, who earned a career-defining victory against one of the most decorated competitors in tennis history. Defeating a Grand Slam champion of Djokovic's stature on a major hard-court stage highlights the rising contender's potential on the international tour. Navone's execution under immense pressure allowed him to weather the storm of Djokovic's third- and fourth-set surges.

For Djokovic, the defeat brings an abrupt end to his campaign at the final major tournament of the season. The physical toll of the match underscored the challenges facing veteran players competing in best-of-five-set formats during the grueling North American summer swing. Djokovic leaves New York having once again displayed his legendary competitive spirit, even as his physical limitations ultimately caught up to him.

Reporting based on coverage first published by The Times of India. Read the original report at The Times of India.