Andy Roddick Hits Back at Fans Calling for Novak Djokovic to Retire After US Open Exit

The US Open witnessed a historic first-round exit after 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic was eliminated by Mariano Navone.

The 39-year-old fell 7-6(5), 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1 to Navone after four hours and 36 minutes at Arthur Ashe Stadium.

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The defeat also marked Djokovic's first loss in the opening round of the US Open, bringing an end to his streak of 77 consecutive first-round victories at Grand Slam tournaments.

Throughout the match, Djokovic struggled physically, with an ongoing health condition seemingly worsened by the humidity. The Serbian was visibly unwell, suffering from vomiting, cramping, and severe back and shoulder pain.

After the match, Djokovic described the experience as "not enjoyable," giving an indication of the physical toll it took on him.

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"When it comes to the match itself and the overall feeling of how I felt with my body and playing, it was really not enjoyable, and I pretty much despised every moment that I spent on the court for that," he said.

Speaking about Djokovic's exit, 2003 US Open champion Andy Roddick gave his honest assessment of the former world No. 1's future.

Andy Roddick Reacts to Novak Djokovic's US Open Exit

During the latest episode of "Served," Roddick claimed that the 39-year-old's body had reached its physical limits.

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"His body wasn't physically able to go anymore."

Roddick explained that questions about Djokovic's future are likely to become a common occurrence following this defeat.

"The story is gonna be, what now for Novak? And I don't think we know. I think every time he walks off the court at a Grand Slam right now, it's okay to wonder if it'll be the last time."

Despite concerns about Djokovic's future, the three-time Wimbledon finalist refused to agree with online critics calling for the Serbian to retire

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."And I think there's a difference between wondering if it'll be his last time, and being a ******* on Twitter saying, 'he should retire.'

The American fired back at fans and online critics pointing out that the final decision to retire or to continue playing was entirely on Djokovic.

"Shut up. He can make that decision. He's in on his own entry. He's made the semis more often than not recently. We don't get a say in it. Everyone chooses their own path."

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