In a stunning turn of events at the US Open, defending champion Novak Djokovic was ousted in the third round by Australia’s Alexei Popyrin. The 28th-seeded Popyrin secured a 6-4, 6-4, 2-6, 6-4 victory over the No. 2 seed, ending Djokovic’s bid to become the first tennis player in history to claim 25 Grand Slam singles titles. The loss marks a significant moment in Djokovic’s career, as it is the first time since 2017 that he finishes a year without winning at least one major championship.
Season of Challenges for Novak Djokovic
Novak Djokovic, who underwent knee surgery in June, has faced a series of challenges this season. His defeat at the US Open equals his worst-ever showing at the tournament, matching third-round exits from 2005 and 2006.
The 37-year-old has enjoyed immense success at Flushing Meadows, having reached the final 10 times and winning the title in 2011, 2015, 2018, and 2023. However, on Friday night, Djokovic seemed physically sluggish and emotionally drained, likely a residual effect of his recent victory at the Paris Olympics, where he claimed his first Olympic gold medal for Serbia.
Alexei Popyrin breakthrough performance
For Alexei Popyrin, the victory over Djokovic represents a career-defining moment. Prior to this match, Popyrin had never won a set against Djokovic and had a 0-6 record in third-round matches at Grand Slam tournaments. However, the 25-year-old Australian, fresh off winning the biggest title of his career at a hard-court tournament in Montreal, delivered an exceptional performance against Djokovic.
Popyrin’s powerful serve and aggressive net play were key to his success. He went 10 for 10 on serve-and-volley approaches and won 25 of 36 points when advancing to the net. In contrast, Djokovic struggled, winning only 19 of 40 net points and committing 14 double faults. Popyrin also broke Djokovic’s serve five times, including a crucial break in the fourth set that shifted the momentum in his favour.
A New Era in Men’s Tennis?
Djokovic’s defeat at the US Open, combined with Carlos Alcaraz’s second-round exit, marks a significant shift in men’s tennis. For the first time since 2002, none of the Big Three—Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, and Roger Federer—will claim a Grand Slam title in a calendar year. The changing dynamics of the sport are further highlighted by the rise of younger players like Popyrin, who are making their mark on the Grand Slam stage.
Looking Ahead at US Open 2024
Alexei Popyrin’s victory sets up a fourth-round clash with No. 20 seed Frances Tiafoe, who advanced after a gruelling five-set win over fellow American Ben Shelton. As Popyrin eyes his first Grand Slam quarterfinal, Djokovic will have to regroup and reflect on a challenging season that has tested the limits of his legendary career.
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