Novak Djokovic’s
Aug. 31, 2024, 6:46 a.m.
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Novak Djokovic’s US Open Run Ends in Stunning Loss to Alexei Popyrin

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Alexei Popyrin pulled off the biggest upset of his career by defeating Novak Djokovic in the third round of the 2024 US Open, ending Djokovic’s pursuit of a historic 25th Grand Slam title. The 25-year-old Australian won 6-4, 6-4, 2-6, 6-4 in a match that left the audience inside Arthur Ashe Stadium stunned.

Djokovic’s Early Struggles

Djokovic, the second seed, looked far from his usual self, committing 13 double faults, a career high for the Serb in a tour-level match. The 37-year-old, who had recently undergone knee surgery, appeared to lack his usual energy and precision. He described the match as “just awful,” admitting he felt mentally and physically exhausted from the outset.

Popyrin, on the other hand, played aggressive and inspired tennis, taking full advantage of Djokovic’s uncharacteristic errors. The 6-foot-5 Australian outplayed Djokovic for long stretches, breaking the 24-time Grand Slam champion's serve and maintaining his nerve even as Djokovic showed signs of a comeback in the third set.

The Significance of Popyrin’s Win

This victory is a major milestone for Popyrin, who had never advanced past the third round of a Grand Slam in 23 previous appearances. The win comes on the heels of his first Masters 1000 title earlier this summer in Montreal, where he defeated several top-20 players.

After two close losses to Djokovic earlier in the year at the Australian Open and Wimbledon, Popyrin said, “Third time lucky, I guess. This match was different. I took my chances when I had them.”

Djokovic’s Disappointment

Djokovic had entered the US Open hoping to become the first back-to-back champion since Roger Federer in 2008. The Serb, fresh off winning the Olympic gold medal, admitted that the emotional and physical toll had left him “out of gas.” He acknowledged the disappointment but vowed to “recalibrate” and focus on the next phase of his career.

This loss marks Djokovic's earliest exit from the US Open in 18 years and his first third-round exit at a major tournament since 2018.

Popyrin’s Path Forward

Popyrin now faces Frances Tiafoe in the fourth round, with both players eyeing a spot in the quarterfinals of a wide-open US Open men’s draw. The Australian’s recent surge in form, combined with his impressive win over Djokovic, has made him a formidable contender in the tournament.

Popyrin’s victory ensures that 2024 will be the first year since 2002 that none of the sport’s "Big Three" – Djokovic, Roger Federer, or Rafael Nadal – will claim a Grand Slam title, signaling a possible new era in men’s tennis.



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