ON
← Back to feed
Carlos Alcaraz returns to the U.S. Open after an injury break
Germany⚽ Sports9/2/2026

Carlos Alcaraz returns to the U.S. Open after an injury break

Carlos Alcaraz returns to competitive tennis at the US Open after a four-month injury layoff. The Spanish world number one has been dealing with doubts about his long-term health due to recurring wrist issues. Despite undergoing extensive rehabilitation, Alcaraz showed signs of nervousness ahead of his first match against Roman Safiullin. He participated in a mixed doubles event with Serena Williams without visible physical limitations but faces a significant test against Russia’s Andrey Rublev. Alcaraz was seeded second in the men's singles draw due to the absence of his main rival Jannik Sinner, who also missed the French Open and Wimbledon with similar injuries. While Alcaraz expressed confidence in his recovery, he acknowledged the mental challenges of returning to competition. Fellow top player Alexander Zverev praised Alcaraz's physical progress and suggested that once Alcaraz adapts, he could be a strong contender for the title.

Novak Djokovic, the former world No. 1 and one of the greatest tennis players of all time, suffered an unprecedented early exit from the US Open on Sunday, losing in the first round to Argentina’s Mariano Navone. The 39-year-old Serbian defeated Navone in five sets, 6-7 (5-7), 7-5, 6-4, 2-6, 1-6, in a grueling match that lasted over four and a half hours. It marked the first time Djokovic, who had previously won the US Open four times, failed to advance past the opening round of the prestigious tournament. Djokovic endured severe physical distress throughout the match, frequently vomiting into a bucket on the sideline and visibly struggling with cramps and pain. He described the experience as one he “despised” every minute of, citing ongoing health issues that have plagued him for several years, particularly under hot and humid conditions. Despite these challenges, Djokovic fought valiantly, even managing to secure key points in each set before ultimately succumbing to fatigue and injury. The loss ended a remarkable streak of 78 consecutive Grand Slam first-round victories, which had begun at the 2006 French Open. It also dashed Djokovic’s hopes of securing his 25th Grand Slam title, a milestone that would have solidified his place as the most successful male player in tennis history. His last major victory came three years ago at the US Open, where he defeated Russia’s Daniil Medvedev in the final. Djokovic’s performance was marred by repeated episodes of nausea and physical exhaustion. During the second set, he vomited multiple times and appeared visibly weakened. At one point, he collapsed onto his knees after a long rally, panting heavily. Despite these setbacks, Djokovic showed resilience, winning crucial points and even breaking Navone’s serve in the third set. However, his body eventually gave out, and he was unable to recover in the fifth set, where Navone sealed the victory with relative ease. Navone, ranked 48th in the world, expressed disbelief at his historic win. “It was a tough match, a battle,” he said afterward. “Playing against Novak the first time in the biggest stage we have in the world of tennis right now... it’s crazy.” The Argentine, who had previously faced Djokovic only once in his career, admitted the victory meant a great deal to him, especially considering the magnitude of the occasion. Djokovic acknowledged the severity of his health struggles during the match. “I’ve been carrying this issue for a while,” he said. “You know, vomiting, throwing up, a serious issue there. Then my whole body starts to collapse, basically cramping and pain. Yeah, the back just gave up in the end and shoulder, and I couldn’t close it out.” The health concerns were not new. Earlier this month, Djokovic withdrew from the Cincinnati Masters due to similar symptoms. He described the condition as an ongoing issue affecting him for “many years,” though he did not specify its nature. Despite this, he continued competing at the highest level, reaching the Australian Open final in January and the Wimbledon semifinals in June. Djokovic’s wife, Jelena, watched the match from the stands, her face etched with concern. Their children, Stefan and Tara, cheered enthusiastically whenever their father scored a point. After the match, Djokovic formed a heart with his hands toward the crowd as he left the court, acknowledging the support of his family. The defeat raises questions about Djokovic’s future in professional tennis. At 39, he is the oldest active member of the so-called “Big Four”, alongside Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Andy Murray, who have dominated men’s tennis for nearly two decades. With his physical condition deteriorating, Djokovic has openly considered the possibility of retiring soon. In a recent documentary, he spoke candidly about balancing his career with family life, questioning how long he would continue subjecting himself and his loved ones to the demands of elite sports. As the tennis world reacts to this unexpected outcome, attention turns to whether Djokovic can find a solution to his health problems or if this marks the beginning of the end of his illustrious career. For now, he remains focused on the present, expressing determination to keep fighting despite the uncertainty ahead.

How this report was made. Objective News wrote this report from 9 source articles, using AI-assisted synthesis under our methodology. It is our own text, not a copy of any single outlet. Read our methodology.

Responsible editor: Matej BašaSpotted an error? Report it

10 reports

Deutsche Welle (Deutsch) logoDeutsche Welle (Deutsch)State / PublicCenterFactual 98Objective 858/31/2026
Tennis: drama over Novak Djokovic at the US Open

Novak Djokovic, der serbische Tennis-Großmeister, verlor bei den US Open in der ersten Runde nach schweren gesundheitlichen Problemen. Während des Matches litt er unter Übelkeit, Krämpfen und Muskelschmerzen, wobei er mehrmals übergeben musste. Trotz seiner Schwäche kämpfte er 36 Stunden lang, bis er schließlich gegen den Argentinier Mariano Navone unterging. Djokovic äußerte sich nach dem Match über seine Leiden und erwähnte, dass er kurzfristig daran dachte, das Match abzubrechen. Seine Familie stand ihm während des Spiels zur Seite, doch die gesundheitlichen Herausforderungen blieben unüberwindbar. Dies markiert das erste Mal, dass Djokovic bei den US Open in der ersten Runde ausschied, und verlängert seinen Traum von seinem 25. Grand-Slam-Titel.

Bias read (Center): Die Berichterstattung konzentriert sich rein auf die sportlichen Ereignisse und die persönlichen Herausforderungen von Novak Djokovic. Es gibt keine politische Einordnung oder parteipolitische Bewertung. Die Sprache bleibt objektiv und berichtet sachlich über das Match sowie die gesundheitlichen Bel

Why factuality (98): This article provides detailed and accurate information about Djokovic's performance, including direct quotes from him and specific details about his health issues. The content matches the cross-source consensus regarding the match result and his physical state.

Why objectivity (85): While the article includes direct quotes from Djokovic expressing his feelings, it still maintains a relatively objective tone by presenting his statements alongside the match facts without overt bias.

Deutsche Welle (English) logoDeutsche Welle (English)State / PublicCenterFactual 97Objective 928/31/2026
Ailing Djokovic 'despised' every moment of US Open defeat

Novak Djokovic, the former world No. 1 tennis player, suffered his earliest Grand Slam exit in two decades at the US Open, losing to 25-year-old Argentine Mariano Navone in five sets. The 39-year-old Serbian player described the experience as deeply unpleasant, stating he 'despised' every moment of the match due to physical distress including vomiting, cramps, and severe back and shoulder pain. Djokovic attributed his struggles to a long-standing health issue exacerbated by hot and humid conditions, which has affected him throughout the year. Despite these challenges, he reached the finals of the Australian Open and semifinals of Wimbledon earlier this year. Djokovic remains uncertain about how to address his condition but continues to compete, maintaining his position as the fifth-ranked player in men's tennis.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a factual account of Djokovic's performance and health issues without overtly favoring any political stance. It reports on the athlete's personal experiences and medical concerns without ideological framing.

Why factuality (97): The English-language article from Deutsche Welle accurately reports the match outcome, score, and Djokovic's physical condition. It aligns with the cross-source consensus and presents the facts clearly.

Why objectivity (92): The article remains largely objective, focusing on the match details and Djokovic's comments without taking sides or using emotionally charged language.

Die Zeit logoDie ZeitIndependentCenterFactual 96Objective 918/31/2026
Tennis: Novak Đoković eliminated in the first round of the US Open

Novak Đoković, a top tennis player, was eliminated in the first round of the US Open after losing to the Argentine outsider Mariano Navone. During the match, Đoković experienced multiple instances of vomiting and showed signs of physical distress, including heavy breathing, leaning on his knees after long points, and receiving treatment for muscle issues in his lower back. The 39-year-old Serbian player, who had never been eliminated in the first round of a Grand Slam tournament before, lost the match with scores of 6:7 (5:7), 7:5, 6:4, 2:6, 1:6. This follows similar health-related issues during a previous tournament in Cincinnati, where he also exited in the first round. Đoković mentioned that he has been dealing with a recurring health problem for several years.

Bias read (Center): The article focuses solely on a sports event and does not involve any political figures, policies, or contentious issues. It provides a factual account of the match outcome and the player's physical condition without any biased language or framing.

Why factuality (96): The article accurately describes Djokovic's first-round loss and physical challenges during the match. It includes relevant details such as the score and his health issues, matching the cross-source consensus.

Why objectivity (91): The article maintains a balanced perspective, reporting on the event without showing preference for either player or adding subjective interpretations.

Tagesschau (ARD) logoTagesschau (ARD)State / PublicCenterFactual 95Objective 908/31/2026
U.S. Open 2026: first round knockout for weakened Djokovic

At the US Open 2026, Novak Djokovic suffered a surprising first-round defeat against Argentine Mariano Navone. The match lasted over four and a half hours and ended with Djokovic losing in five sets (6:7 (5:7), 7:5, 6:4, 2:6, 1:6). Djokovic, who had previously won the tournament four times, appeared physically weakened throughout the match, taking medication for nausea and struggling with back pain. Despite moments where he showed resilience, including breaking Navone’s serve twice, Djokovic ultimately could not recover. Navone expressed disbelief at his victory, calling it 'fantastic' and stating he had faced 'the greatest player on this court.' This unexpected loss raises questions about Djokovic's future performance.

Bias read (Center): The article focuses solely on a sports event, the US Open tennis match, without any political commentary, framing, or implications. It provides a neutral account of the match outcome, Djokovic's physical condition, and Navone's reaction, without favoring either athlete or suggesting broader political,

Why factuality (95): The article accurately reports Djokovic's first-round loss at the US Open 2026 to Mariano Navone, including the scoreline and details about his physical condition during the match. It aligns closely with the cross-source consensus on the outcome and context.

Why objectivity (90): The article maintains a neutral tone, focusing on the facts of the match and Djokovic's physical struggles without overtly favoring either player or injecting strong opinion.

n-tv logon-tvIndependentCenterFactual 94Objective 908/31/2026
Historic US Open drama: Novak Djokovic vomits and cries on the court

The article reports on a dramatic moment during the U.S. Open tennis tournament where Novak Djokovic experienced physical distress and emotional outbursts on the court. The incident occurred during his match, highlighting the intense pressure and high stakes of professional tennis. Djokovic was seen vomiting and crying, which drew attention to the physical and mental challenges athletes face under competitive conditions. The event is described as historic due to the unusual nature of his reaction and the level of emotion displayed during a major tournament.

Bias read (Center): The article focuses on a sports event and does not engage with politically charged topics such as government, elections, or public policy. As such, it is considered apolitical and therefore leans toward the center. There is no indication of ideological framing or bias in the reporting.

Why factuality (94): The article accurately reports on Djokovic's historic first-round exit and the physical challenges he faced during the match. It aligns with the cross-source consensus on the event.

Why objectivity (90): The article presents the event in a balanced manner, focusing on the facts and quoting Djokovic directly without showing clear bias or emotional language.

Der Spiegel logoDer SpiegelIndependentCenterFactual 93Objective 898/31/2026
US Open: Novak Djokovic throws up and fails early

Novak Djokovic, der ehemalige Wimbledon-Champion und Grand-Slam-Rekordsieger, ist bei den US Open 2026 bereits im ersten Rundenmatch gegen den Argentinier Mariano Navone ausgeschieden. Während des 436-minütigen Spiels zeigte Djokovic deutliche körperliche Schwierigkeiten, unter anderem mehrfaches Erbrechen und starke Müdigkeit. Obwohl er in den ersten Sätzen gut spielte, wurde er im Tiebreak des ersten Satzes besiegt. In den Folge-sätzen zeigte er weitere Symptome wie Muskelbeschwerden und benötigte Medikamente sowie eine Pause. Seine Familie sah das Match vom Publikum aus, wobei seine Frau Jelena besorgt dreinschaute. Dies markiert den ersten Erstrunden-Aus in Djokovics Karriere bei den US Opens und unterstreicht die zunehmenden gesundheitlichen Herausforderungen im Alter.

Bias read (Center): Der Artikel berichtet objektiv über ein Tennisspiel ohne politische oder ideologische Einflussnahme. Es wird keine politische Position vertreten oder bewerten, sondern lediglich die sportlichen Ereignisse und die körperlichen Zustände von Djokovic beschrieben.

Why factuality (93): The article accurately conveys Djokovic's early exit and physical difficulties during the match. While it contains fewer specifics than some other sources, it does not present any false information.

Why objectivity (89): The article remains neutral in tone, focusing on the event itself rather than taking a stance or expressing personal opinions.

Bild logoBildIndependentCenterFactual 92Objective 878/31/2026
Novak Djokovic: Vomiting and tears at the US Open knockout

The article reports on Novak Djokovic's emotional reaction during his defeat at the U.S. Open, describing him as experiencing vomiting and tears. The piece focuses on his physical and emotional state following the loss, highlighting the intensity of the match and the personal toll it took on the tennis player.

Bias read (Center): The article covers a sports event and does not engage with politically charged topics. It provides a straightforward account of Djokovic's experience during the tournament without taking a clear ideological stance or using biased language.

Why factuality (92): The article reports on Djokovic's dramatic exit from the tournament, mentioning his physical symptoms and emotional response. It aligns with the general consensus found in other sources.

Why objectivity (87): The article is brief and focuses on the event without significant editorializing, maintaining a mostly neutral tone despite the dramatic nature of the event.

Die Welt logoDie WeltIndependent🔒CenterFactual 90Objective 888/31/2026
US Open: drama over superstar Dj Djokovic throws up and cries

The article reports on Novak Djokovic's emotional and physical reaction during the US Open tennis tournament. It describes him vomiting and crying after a match, highlighting the intense pressure he faced as a top-ranked player. The piece focuses on his personal struggle and the high stakes of the competition, portraying the dramatic moment as a significant event in the tournament.

Bias read (Center): The article covers a sports event and does not involve politically charged topics such as government, elections, or public policy. Therefore, it is considered apolitical and balanced in its framing.

Why factuality (90): The article briefly mentions Djokovic's defeat and physical issues but lacks some specific details compared to other sources. However, it does not contradict any known facts and aligns with the overall narrative.

Why objectivity (88): The article is concise and neutral in tone, providing minimal commentary while focusing on the main event without apparent bias.

Tagesschau (ARD) logoTagesschau (ARD)State / PublicCenterFactual 85Objective 808/30/2026
Carlos Alcaraz returns to the U.S. Open after an injury break

Carlos Alcaraz returns to competitive tennis at the US Open after a four-month injury layoff. The Spanish world number one has been dealing with doubts about his long-term health due to recurring wrist issues. Despite undergoing extensive rehabilitation, Alcaraz showed signs of nervousness ahead of his first match against Roman Safiullin. He participated in a mixed doubles event with Serena Williams without visible physical limitations but faces a significant test against Russia’s Andrey Rublev. Alcaraz was seeded second in the men's singles draw due to the absence of his main rival Jannik Sinner, who also missed the French Open and Wimbledon with similar injuries. While Alcaraz expressed confidence in his recovery, he acknowledged the mental challenges of returning to competition. Fellow top player Alexander Zverev praised Alcaraz's physical progress and suggested that once Alcaraz adapts, he could be a strong contender for the title.

Bias read (Center): The article focuses on a sports event and does not involve politically charged topics such as government, elections, or public policy. It provides a balanced report on Alcaraz's return to play, including quotes from both Alcaraz and Zverev, without taking a clear ideological stance. The tone remains

Why factuality (85): The article reports on Carlos Alcaraz returning to play at the US Open after a lengthy injury layoff, citing his physical and mental state. It references his mixed doubles match with Serena Williams and mentions his placement due to his injury. While no primary source is available, the information a

Why objectivity (80): The tone remains neutral, focusing on Alcaraz's condition and performance without overtly expressing positive or negative sentiment. However, there is some emotional language describing his nervousness and the difficulty of his recovery, which slightly reduces objectivity.

Frankfurter Allgemeine (FAZ) logoFrankfurter Allgemeine (FAZ)Independent🔒CenterFactual 85Objective 789/2/2026
US Open: It's been almost two days : Tatjana Maria continues after a power play

Tatjana Maria, eine 39-jährige Tennisprofi, hat bei den US Open einen Überraschungssieg erzielt und die zweite Runde erreicht. Sie besiegte die französische Open-Siegerin Jelena Ostapenko mit 4:6, 6:1, 6:2. Die Partie wurde am Vortag aufgrund von Dauerregen unterbrochen und musste fortgesetzt werden. Maria gab zu, dass die Matchdauer psychisch belastend war. In der Fortsetzung zeigte sie viel Aufmerksamkeit und nutzte ihre unkonventionelle Spielweise, um Ostapenko zu verwirren. Ostapenko beging viele Fehler und wirkte geistesabwesend. Maria wird nun gegen die Tschekinin Nikola Bartunkova antreten und könnte ihren größten Erfolg bei den US Open feiern.

Bias read (Center): Der Artikel berichtet über ein Tennismatch und enthält keine politischen oder kontroversen Themen. Der Schwerpunkt liegt auf der Sportleistung und den Ergebnissen des Matches. Es gibt keine einseitige Darstellung oder verborgene Agenda. Die Berichterstattung ist objektiv und konzentriert sich rein f

Why factuality (85): The article reports on Tatjana Maria's victory at the US Open, citing her win over Jelena Ostapenko with specific scores. It mentions the match was interrupted by rain and resumed the next day, aligning with common tennis tournament protocols. The details about Maria’s family support and her mental

Why objectivity (78): The article presents the match outcome and Maria's performance in a positive light, using phrases like 'Überraschungserfolg' and highlighting her mental strength. While it provides a balanced account of both players’ performances, it leans slightly towards portraying Maria as the underdog and emphas

How each side covered it

The same event, grouped by the political lean of the outlets covering it.

How each side covered it

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.

Become a Supporter

Covered around the world

The same event as reported in other countries.

Covered around the world

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.

Become a Supporter

Claims check

Key factual claims, and how many sources assert vs dispute each.

Claims check

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.

Become a Supporter

Keep the news honest.

ObjectiveNews is reader-funded and ad-free — we show you the bias instead of hiding it. Support independent journalism for €4/month.

Become a Supporter

Related stories