Politics · India Bureau
Djokovic's US Open exit raises questions about future after Grand Slam drought
Novak Djokovic suffered his earliest Grand Slam exit in nearly two decades at the US Open, losing in the first round to Argentina's Mariano Navone. The result leaves the 24-time Grand Slam champion's competitive future uncertain as he approaches his 40th year.
LSN India ·
The Serbian tennis legend's departure from Arthur Ashe Stadium on Sunday night was marked by emotional farewells as his children watched from the stands. Djokovic acknowledged the crowd with heart gestures and kisses before exiting the court to a standing ovation, carrying his equipment bags as he walked off.
His 7-6(5), 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1 defeat to unseeded Argentine Mariano Navone represents a historic low point in his Grand Slam career. This marks his earliest first-round exit at a major championship since the 2006 Australian Open, spanning a remarkable 18-year run of deeper tournament runs. More significantly, it is the first time in his US Open history that Djokovic has fallen in the opening round.
At 39 years old, questions now surround whether the holder of a men's record 24 Grand Slam singles titles will continue his professional career. The loss has triggered widespread speculation about his future on the circuit, particularly given the prolonged nature of his recent Grand Slam drought and the physical demands of elite-level competition at his age.
Djokovic's exit comes amid growing debate about when elite players should consider retirement and whether competing at the highest level remains feasible as age takes its toll. His family's presence at the tournament suggested this could potentially mark a watershed moment in his career trajectory.