Novak Djokovic expressed that he "despised" every single minute of the grueling five‑set, nearly five‑hour battle that saw his US Open campaign end in the opening round, prompting many to wonder whether the Serbian star might finally decide to hang up his racket after a career brimming with trophies. The 24‑time Grand Slam champion suffered an unprecedented first‑round defeat at Flushing Meadows, falling to Argentine qualifier Mariano Navone. Until this match, Djokovic had maintained a perfect 19‑0 record in US Open opening matches and had not lost his first match at any major since Paul Goldstein upset him at the Australian Open back in 2006. During the post‑match interview, the 39‑year‑old admitted that the underlying health issue he disclosed two weeks earlier was "serious," yet he remains determined to address the problem and return to competition.
Throughout the contest he appeared physically exhausted, battled persistent nausea, and frequently doubled over in pain. At one point he fought back tears, but he managed a gracious smile as he congratulated world No.
49 Navone on what was, for the Argentine, the most significant victory of his career. Djokovic has previously hinted that his ultimate farewell could come at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, where he would once again carry the Serbian flag for a final appearance. Former Wimbledon champion Marion Bartoli weighed in on the match, describing it as "heart‑breaking" to watch the multiple‑time champion suffer so visibly. She added, "The way he was physically suffering is worrying.
His health should come first, so he needs to have proper medical checks to see what happens." Former British No. 1 Tim Henman also shared his perspective, acknowledging that the defeat was "a tough watch" but arguing that retirement was not yet on the table.
"Djokovic wasn't feeling well out on court. He gave it his absolute all to find a way through the match.
When he was up two sets to one with a break in the fourth, you thought he could," Henman said, recalling his own experience as a US Open semi‑finalist. He continued, "But he was vomiting on the court and didn't have the energy. Navone kept on fighting and, with youth on his side, he ran away with the fourth and fifth set." When asked directly whether he believed the ailing Serbian should retire, Henman responded emphatically, "Absolutely not.
It's his decision, it's his prerogative. He's No. 5 in the world. If every person who was fifth best in the world at their occupation retired, there wouldn't be many people working.
It's purely his decision. He should play for as long as he likes and I definitely don't think he should be stopping right now." Henman also addressed Djokovic's physical condition, noting that while his mental fortitude and desire to win remain intact, the challenges of a 39‑year‑old body are undeniable. "When you hear him saying he 'despised being out there', that's awful. I'm sure he will go away and assess things because that's not the way we want to see Djokovic depart any tournament," he added.
American player Ryan Harrison expressed empathy for the Serbian champion, pointing out that Djokovic has been wrestling with his body for weeks, a struggle that also saw him bow out in the first round of the Cincinnati Open earlier in the month. "It's frustrating whenever you're battling your body a little bit, but not enjoying the moment that you're in specifically because it's difficult is quite different from not enjoying the entirety of the sport," Harrison explained. He remains optimistic about Djokovic's future, stating, "He'll want to get back in action in 2027.
I still think he's a great player and he's still at the top of the game." The broader tennis community has been quick to highlight the seriousness of Djokovic's health concerns. Medical experts suggest that the combination of chronic back issues, a recent gastrointestinal infection, and the cumulative wear and tear of over two decades at the elite level could require a more extended recovery period than a typical off‑season. Some commentators argue that a strategic pause, perhaps even a short sabbatical, might allow him to rebuild strength and avoid a precipitous decline that could tarnish his legacy.
Nevertheless, Djokovic's competitive spirit remains evident. In a recent press conference he reiterated his intention to compete at the 2028 Olympics, emphasizing that representing Serbia on the world stage holds deep personal significance. He also hinted at a possible shift in his schedule, focusing more on selective events that minimize travel strain and maximize recovery time.
Fans and analysts alike are divided. While a portion of the fanbase urges him to consider retirement to preserve his health and legacy, others believe that his unparalleled experience and tactical brilliance could still yield additional Grand Slam titles, especially if he manages his physical limitations wisely. As the US Open continues its broadcast on Sky Sports, viewers can follow the unfolding drama and see how the tournament's narrative evolves without its most decorated male player.
The event remains a showcase for emerging talents like Navone, who now carries the confidence of having toppled a legend. Whether Djokovic will return to the court next season, aim for a final Olympic triumph, or choose to step away permanently remains an open question, but one thing is clear: his impact on the sport is indelible, and any decision he makes will be weighed heavily by the tennis world.