Novak Djokovic is out of the US Open after a first-round defeat, saying he "despised" every moment of the five-set and near five-hour ordeal.
The 39-year-old looked physically spent, was repeatedly sick and regularly doubled over in pain, but still took Argentina's Mariano Navone the distance.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion later admitted the underlying health issue he first revealed two weeks ago was "serious", although he remains intent on getting the problem fixed.
However, he could not prevent a 7-6 (5) 5-7 4-6 6-2 6-1 defeat and first exit in the opening round of a major since Paul Goldstein beat him at the Australian Open in 2006.
"I think it was obvious that it was an awful feeling on the court for me," said Djokovic.
#defeat
The 39-year-old looked physically spent, was repeatedly sick and regularly doubled over in pain, but still took Argentina's Mariano Navone the distance.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion later admitted the underlying health issue he first revealed two weeks ago was "serious", although he remains intent on getting the problem fixed.
However, he could not prevent a 7-6 (5) 5-7 4-6 6-2 6-1 defeat and first exit in the opening round of a major since Paul Goldstein beat him at the Australian Open in 2006.
"I think it was obvious that it was an awful feeling on the court for me," said Djokovic.
#defeat
13 days ago
