Novak Djokovic’s Shocking US Open Exit: A Deep Dive into His First-Round Loss

• by Shimanta Das
• September 1, 2026

In a stunning turn of events at the 2024 US Open, Novak Djokovic, the 24-time Grand Slam champion, suffered a first-round defeat, marking his earliest exit from a major tournament since the 2006 Australian Open. The match, held on Sunday night, saw Djokovic make a staggering 70 unforced errors, a performance that left fans and analysts alike in disbelief. This loss not only ended his quest for a fifth US Open title but also raised questions about his physical condition and future in the sport.

The exact nature of Djokovic’s ailment remains a mystery, but it is not the first time this issue has surfaced. Earlier this month, during the Cincinnati Open, Djokovic collapsed on the court, dealing with a similar problem. This recurring issue has cast a shadow over his performance, and his inability to maintain his usual level of play was evident as he won just one more game over the remainder of the match after a promising start. Despite his legendary status, this defeat highlights the physical toll that the demanding tennis circuit can take on even the greatest athletes.

Djokovic’s early exit is particularly significant given his dominance in recent years. He won three of the four majors in 2023, and together with other top players, he has helped secure 10 of the last 11 Grand Slam titles for the sport’s elite. His absence from the later rounds of the US Open opens the door for a new generation of players, such as Mariano Navone, who made history in 2024 by becoming the first man in the Open Era to be seeded in his Grand Slam main draw debut at the French Open. Navone is set to face the winner of the Matteo Berrettini and Stan Wawrinka match in the second round, and Djokovic’s departure could shift the dynamics of the tournament.

While Djokovic’s legacy is already cemented as one of the greatest tennis players of his generation, this loss serves as a reminder that even champions face setbacks. As he deals with his mysterious ailment, the tennis world will be watching closely to see how he responds. For now, his focus will be on recovery and preparing for the challenges ahead, as he seeks to add to his remarkable