India, Aug. 31 -- Novak Djokovic was reduced to tears during the deciding set of his US Open first-round match as the 24-time Grand Slam champion battled severe physical discomfort before suffering one of the earliest major exits of his career. The 39-year-old was beaten 7-6(5), 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1 by Argentina's Mariano Navone at Arthur Ashe Stadium, bringing his pursuit of a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam singles title to an abrupt end.

Djokovic had fought back impressively after losing the opening set and moved two sets to one ahead, but his physical condition deteriorated sharply during the latter stages of the contest. He was seen vomiting during the match, used an inhaler and took medication, while also repeatedly stretching and ap...