Manila: On the opening day of the US Open Championships held at Arthur Ashe Stadium, Serbia's Novak Djokovic and American Venus Williams faced unexpected first-round exits.
According to Philippines News Agency, Djokovic, a 24-time Grand Slam winner, was defeated by Argentina's world No. 49 Mariano Navone. Despite being ranked fifth globally and seeded fourth in the tournament, Djokovic, 39, was ousted for the first time in two decades in a Grand Slam's opening round. The match concluded with a scoreline of 6-7(5), 7-5, 6-4, 2-6, 1-6. Djokovic cited persistent health issues, including nausea, vomiting, cramps, and pain, which culminated in his back and shoulder giving up, forcing him to retire from the match.
In the women's singles, Venus Williams, aged 46 and a two-time US Open champion, succumbed to fellow American Sofia Kenin, with scores of 6-2, 7-6. Competing with a special invitation, Williams, ranked 611th in the world, extended her losing streak to 14 consecutive singles matches.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian players had a successful day, with Elina Svitolina, ranked 9th, defeating Argentina's Solana Sierra 6-1, 6-2, and Marta Kostyuk, ranked 11th, overcoming Australia's Storm Hunter 6-4, 6-1.
