The 2026 US Open wasted no time in delivering fireworks, as four-time tournament winner Novak Djokovic was defeated in the first round by Mariano Navone. It was Djokovic's earliest exit at the US Open and earliest at a Grand Slam in two decades.
Who is Mariano Navone?
Navone, 25, is a right-handed, two-handed-backhand player out of 9 de julio in Argentina who began playing tennis when he was 3 years old, idolizing Djokovic. He made his main-draw ATP Tour debut in 2024.
What did Navone say about beating Djokovic?
Navone spoke to the toughness of the match against the GOAT opponent. "For sure, it's the best thing I've had on court. This is an amazing court and the biggest stage. It's amazing, the way we play. I mean, five sets," Navone said.
"I'm very happy. I don't know. What can I say?"
Navone's ranking
In June 2023, he entered the top 200 in the ATP rankings and achieved a career-high No. 29 in June 2024. He won his first ATP Tour singles title in 2026 at the Tiriac Open in Bucharest. As of August 2026, his ranking was No. 49.
How many Grand Slams has Navone played in?
The 2026 US Open marked Navone's 11th main-draw appearance at a Grand Slam and third at the tournament.
When does Navone play next?
After defeating Djokovic in the four-hour, 36-minute stunner, Navone advanced to the second round to face an opponent TBD on Sept. 2.
