Novak Djokovic Says His Health Was Behind Shocking Early Exit at U.S. Open After Vomiting

Novak Djokovic is explaining what went wrong during his stunning early exit from the U.S. Open.

The tennis superstar, 39, battled vomiting, cramping and significant pain during his first-round loss to Mariano Navone on Sunday, August 30, later admitting his physical condition ultimately prevented him from finishing the match the way he wanted.

"I think it was obvious that it was an awful feeling on the court for me," Djokovic said after the grueling match.

Djokovic revealed the problems he experienced at the U.S. Open weren't entirely new.

"It's something that I've been carrying, unfortunately, pretty much every match this year — you know, vomiting, throwing up, serious issue there," he explained. "And then my whole body starts to collapse, basically, camping and pain."

Djokovic has not publicly disclosed a specific diagnosis behind the recurring symptoms.

Despite feeling ill, Djokovic managed to fight through the early stages of the match and eventually took a two-sets-to-one lead over Navone.

His condition deteriorated as the night continued, however, with the 24-time Grand Slam champion requiring medical attention and struggling with his back and shoulder.

"The back just gave up in the end, and the shoulder, and I couldn't close it out," he explained.

Navone ultimately completed the upset in five sets.

Djokovic later admitted there were moments when he questioned whether he would be able to continue playing at all.

The tennis icon considered retiring from the match before temporarily finding his footing and taking control in the second and third sets.

His physical problems eventually became too much to overcome, with Djokovic visibly emotional as he battled through the final stages.

"I'm trying, man. I'm trying," he said when asked whether he could overcome the recurring health issues. "I'm just trying to address really what's going on and how far I can go this way."

As Djokovic struggled on the court, fans inside Arthur Ashe Stadium continued chanting his name and encouraging him to keep fighting.

The support wasn't lost on him.

Djokovic said the "love and appreciation" from the crowd "really touched my heart."

When TMZ Sports caught up with him in New York City less than 48 hours after the match, he reiterated his appreciation for the fans.

"Always love. Always love, and gratitude for the support," he said.

Despite the alarming scenes during his match, Djokovic appeared to be improving in the days following his elimination.

Asked by TMZ Sports how he was feeling, Djokovic replied, "Better. Bit Better. A bit better."

The loss marked Djokovic's first-ever opening-round defeat at the U.S. Open and his earliest exit from a Grand Slam in two decades.

For now, the tennis great appears focused on figuring out what's behind the recurring symptoms that have complicated his season.