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Novak Djokovic's latest US Open campaign ended in painful fashion after the tennis legend suffered a gruelling first round defeat while visibly struggling physically throughout the contest.
Djokovic lost to Mariano Navone after four hours and 36 minutes on August 30, making the match the longest opening round contest of a Grand Slam in the Serbian's career. The defeat also marked his earliest exit from a major tournament in two decades and his first ever first round loss at the US Open.
The 39 year old endured a difficult afternoon on court, appearing visibly unwell as the match progressed. He vomited during the contest, appeared to struggle with his left foot and received medical assistance. At various points, his lower back was massaged while he also took medication provided by a doctor.
Speaking after the match, Djokovic admitted that he had not enjoyed the experience and described the physical difficulties as something he had been experiencing throughout the year.
He said vomiting had become a recurring problem during matches, eventually contributing to cramping, pain and a general collapse in his physical condition. His back and shoulder problems ultimately made it difficult for him to complete the contest at the level required.
The defeat also raised fresh questions about whether Djokovic's extraordinary career could be approaching its conclusion.
Asked about his future, the veteran admitted that he was unsure whether the match would be his final appearance at the US Open. He said he was attempting to understand what was happening physically and determine how much longer he could continue under such circumstances.
The latest setback follows another difficult outing at the Cincinnati Open earlier this month, where Djokovic collapsed during his match and subsequently discussed an ongoing health issue that he said had affected him for years.
According to Djokovic, heat and humidity can make the problem particularly difficult to manage.
His US Open defeat carries additional significance because it came exactly 21 years after his tournament debut. It also means Djokovic will fall outside the ATP top 10 for the first time since July 2018.
The result marked another symbolic shift in men's tennis. For the first time since 2003, a Grand Slam second round will not feature Djokovic, Roger Federer or Rafael Nadal.
Despite the disappointment, Djokovic remained appreciative of his relationship with New York and its fans. Posting after the tournament, he simply described himself as "Forever grateful, New York."
Whether he returns to the US Open next year remains uncertain, but the defeat has undoubtedly placed renewed attention on the future of one of tennis's greatest champions.
