Novak Djokovic had never previously lost in the first round at the US Open. (Getty Images: Mike Stobe)
Novak Djokovic has lost in the first round of the US Open to Mariano Navone, 7-6 (7/5), 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1.
Former US Open champion Daniil Medvedev cruised to a straight-sets victory in the first round.
Another ex-champion, Marin Cilic, and 2022 runner-up Casper Ruud have pulled out of the US Open due to injuries.
An emotional Novak Djokovic has made his earliest exit at a major in 20 years following a shock five-set loss to Argentine Mariano Navone at the US Open.
Playing through tears in the final set, four-time champion Djokovic — who was in physical discomfort for much of the match — fell to 49th-ranked Navone in the first round, 7-6 (7/5), 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1.
The match lasted almost four hours and 36 minutes on Arthur Ashe Stadium and finished just before midnight, local time.
The last time Djokovic exited a major in the first round was at the 2006 Australian Open.
He had previously never lost in the opening round at Flushing Meadows.
Djokovic made 70 unforced errors during the match.
The 24-time major winner vomited at least once and later appeared to be cramping when he grabbed his left foot.
Novak Djokovic was in discomfort throughout the match. (Getty Images: Julian Finney)
"I think it was obvious that it was an awful feeling on the court for me."
Djokovic added: "It's something that I've been carrying, unfortunately, pretty much every match this year: vomiting, throwing up. [It's a] serious issue there.
"Then my whole body starts to collapse, basically cramping and pain. The back just gave up in the end and shoulder, and I couldn't close it out."
