Novak Djokovic gives major health update after vomiting during US Open first-round defeat

Novak Djokovic has provided a brief health update after suffering a difficult first-round exit at the US Open. The 39-year-old Serbian star battled illness, cramps and a back issue during his four-hour, 36-minute match against Argentina’s Mariano Navone.Djokovic vomited several times on the Arthur Ashe Stadium court and struggled physically late in the contest. He eventually lost 7-6(5), 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1. Two days later, Djokovic told TMZ Sports that he was feeling “Better. Bit better. A bit better” as he continued his recovery.Novak Djokovic gives updates about his health after US Open health scareNovak Djokovic was seen in New York on Tuesday, less than 48 hours after his exhausting battle with Navone. TMZ Sports asked the 24-time Grand Slam champion about his condition.“Better. Bit better. A bit better,” Djokovic said.The Serbian legend admitted that he is not back to full fitness yet. However, his response suggested that he is slowly recovering from the problems that affected him during his US Open opener.Djokovic’s defeat was a historic one. It was the first time he had lost in the opening round of the US Open. It was also his first opening-round Grand Slam defeat since the 2006 Australian Open. The match against Mariano Navone quickly became a physical battle.Djokovic started strongly and moved 3-0 ahead in the opening set. However, Navone fought back and forced a tiebreak. The Argentine won the first set as Djokovic continued to look uncomfortable. Rain caused a short interruption at Arthur Ashe Stadium. The roof was closed before play resumed.Djokovic fought back in the second set. He then appeared to regain some control in the third. But his physical problems continued.During the third set, Djokovic vomited into a courtside bin. He still managed to break Navone for a 5-4 lead. He eventually took the set and moved ahead 2-1.The fourth set changed the match. Djokovic’s serve began to fade. He was also dealing with a back issue. Navone took advantage and levelled the match.The fifth set was even more difficult for Djokovic. Navone remained composed and won it 6-1 to complete the biggest victory of his career. The defeat also ended Djokovic’s latest attempt to win a record 25th Grand Slam title.After the match, Djokovic explained how difficult the experience had been.“I pretty much despised every moment I spent on the court for that,” Djokovic told reporters.Djokovic also received huge support from the New York crowd. Thousands of fans chanted his name as he struggled physically. The Serbian appreciated the support despite being unable to complete the comeback.“Always love. Always love, and gratitude for the support,” Novak told TMZ.For now, Djokovic’s latest update indicates that he is improving. However, the tennis great is still not completely recovered after one of the toughest matches of his career.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.