An emotional Novak Djokovic broke down in tears during his US Open first-round defeat by Argentina's Mariano Navone. The 39-year-old, a 24-time Grand Slam champion, struggled physically throughout the dramatic match, even vomiting into a towel bin.
Djokovic, seeded fourth, ultimately succumbed to a 7-6 (7-5) 5-7 4-6 6-2 6-1 loss. This marks the first time the Serb has been beaten in the opening round at Flushing Meadows and his first Grand Slam first-round exit since 2006.
He appeared to be dealing with a similar health issue to one that affected him at the Cincinnati Open a fortnight prior, where he also suffered an early exit. Djokovic had previously stated a "health condition" has been "bothering" him in oppressive conditions for a number of years.
Despite the defeat, Djokovic managed a smile as he congratulated 25-year-old Navone, world number 49, on what will be one of the biggest victories of his career. However, a disconsolate Djokovic appeared close to tears again as he left the court.