Novak Djokovic fell at the first hurdle as his tilt at a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam came to a shock end to Argentine Mariano Navone in a five-set epic at the US Open. The 39-year-old went down 7-6 (7-5) 5-7 4-6 6-2 6-1 to the world No 49 in a match that lasted four hours and 36 minutes. It was the longest opening match of a Grand Slam in Djokovic's career and the earliest exit at a major since the 2006 Australian Open.

Navone ended the Serbian's bid for a fifth US Open title and a record 25th Grand Slam crown as he struggled with physical problems in oppressive humidity. The Serbian was 42-12 in five-set matches, while Navone was 0-4 but Djokovic was unable to battle through as he struggled to move at times and vomited on multiple occasions. With this defeat, the question now lingers as to whether this was Djokovic's final match at this or any Grand Slam. "I didn't enjoy myself," Djokovic said. "I think it was obvious that it was an awful feeling on the court for me." "It's something that I've been carrying, unfortunately, pretty much every match this year.

Vomiting, throwing up, a serious issue there. Then my whole body started to collapse, basically cramping and pain." "The back just gave up in the end and shoulder, and I couldn't close it out." "I was a break up in the fourth, but just struggled all the way since the fourth game of the match." "I don't want to take too much out of his win. Congrats to him.

He's a nice guy, a fighter. But I didn't enjoy myself.".