In a shocking turn of events, Novak Djokovic’s quest for a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title came to an abrupt end at the US Open. The world number one was defeated by Australia’s Alexei Popyrin, ranked 28th, in a thrilling third-round match. Popyrin’s aggressive play and Djokovic’s uncharacteristic errors led to a 6-4, 6-4, 2-6, 6-4 victory for the Australian.
Djokovic, who has been dominant throughout the season, struggled with his serve, committing 13 double faults – the most he has ever recorded in a tour-level match. This unexpected defeat has left fans and analysts alike in disbelief, as Djokovic was widely expected to advance deep into the tournament.
A Tournament of Upsets
The 2024 US Open has been a tournament full of surprises. Just a day before Djokovic’s exit, defending champion Carlos Alcaraz was also knocked out, adding to the unpredictability of this year’s competition. Popyrin’s victory over Djokovic is being hailed as one of the biggest upsets in recent tennis history, showcasing the depth of talent in the men’s game.
Djokovic’s Reaction
In his post-match press conference, Djokovic was candid about his performance, admitting that he was “out of gas” and struggled to find his rhythm. He praised Popyrin for his exceptional play and expressed disappointment at not being able to perform at his best. Despite the loss, Djokovic remains focused on his future goals and hinted at taking some time to reassess his schedule and recovery plans.
Looking Ahead
As the tennis world processes this stunning result, attention now turns to the remaining players in the draw. With Djokovic and Alcaraz out, the path to the title is wide open, promising more excitement and drama in the days to come. For Djokovic, this loss will undoubtedly serve as motivation as he prepares for the next challenges in his illustrious career
