Djokovic in tears during US Open first-round exit

The 24-time Grand Slam champion was overcome by emotion in the deciding set of a dramatic match where he struggled physically throughout and had to vomit into a towel bin.

Djokovic, seeded fourth, showed the fight for which he has always been renowned before succumbing to a 7-6 (7-5) 5-7 4-6 6-2 6-1 loss in a humid New York. It was the first time the Serb had been beaten in the opening round at Flushing Meadows and the first time he had lost in the opening round of a Grand Slam tournament since 2006. "I think it was obvious that it was an awful feeling on the court for me," Djokovic said. "I don't want to take too much out of Mariano's win. Congrats to him, he's a nice guy and a fighter - but I didn't enjoy myself." Djokovic managed to raise a smile as he congratulated 25-year-old Navone on what will rank as one of the biggest victories of the world number 49's career. But, after showing grace and class while congratulating his opponent, a disconsolate Djokovic was unable to keep a brave face for long and appeared close to tears again as he trudged back to the locker room.