Novak Djokovic suffered a stunning and emotional exit in the opening round of the US Open on Monday, falling to Argentina’s Mariano Navone in a grueling five-set match. The defeat marks a historic low at Flushing Meadows for the 39-year-old tennis great, who had previously maintained a flawless 19-0 record in the tournament's first round.

Playing under heavy humidity in New York, the fourth-seeded Serbian champion fought through severe physical distress before ultimately succumbing 7-6 (7-5), 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1. The loss also snaps an extraordinary streak that stretched back to 2006, representing the first time in two decades that the 24-time Grand Slam winner has exited a major tournament at the very first hurdle.

Djokovic appeared to be in control early on, securing an early break to establish a 4-1 lead in the opening set. However, a demanding physical rally quickly drained his energy, triggering a cascade of physical ailments that plagued him for the remainder of the afternoon.

Throughout the match, the veteran star struggled visibly with nausea and exhaustion, at one point needing to use a towel bin to vomit. As his movement slowed and his serve lost its power, an anxious silence settled over Arthur Ashe Stadium. He requested medical assistance during the ninth game of the opening set, receiving medication in an attempt to stabilize his condition.

Despite the mounting physical crisis, Djokovic summoned his trademark competitive grit to battle back and claim the second and third sets, briefly shifting momentum in his favor. Yet the oppressive weather conditions continued to take a heavy toll on his body. By the fourth and fifth sets, his physical reserves were entirely depleted, allowing the 25-year-old Navone—ranked 49th in the world—to comfortably seize control and complete the monumental upset.

Speaking to reporters after the match, Djokovic admitted to feeling miserable on the court and acknowledged a recurring health obstacle. He revealed that he has battled a persistent physical condition triggered by extreme humidity throughout the year, citing recurring bouts of vomiting, severe cramping, and a collapsing back and shoulder that ultimately halted his progress.

After shaking hands at the net and offering a gracious smile to his opponent, a visibly distraught Djokovic broke down in tears. As he walked off the court and headed toward the locker room, he was overcome with emotion once again, reflecting the gravity of an evening that may signal a turning point in his legendary career.

The early elimination halts Djokovic's latest pursuit of a standalone record 25th Grand Slam singles title, which would lift him past Margaret Court on the all-time list. With top-ranked Jannik Sinner sidelined by injury and defending champion Carlos Alcaraz working his way back to full fitness, many analysts viewed this year's tournament as a prime opportunity for the veteran. Instead, the loss provides fresh evidence that time is catching up with one of the sport's greatest competitors.

Reporting based on coverage first published by BBC Sport. Read the original report at BBC Sport.