Serbian tennis star Novak Djokovic, known as one of the greatest players in the game, suffered a surprising defeat at the U.S. Open in the third round. The No. 2 seed fell to Alexei Popyrin of Australia in a 6-4, 6-4, 2-6, 6-4 loss. This loss came just after another top-seeded player, Carlos Alcaraz, was also defeated in the second round. Djokovic expressed disappointment over his performance, acknowledging that he was not playing at his best and his game seemed to be falling apart. He accepted that such tournaments happen, even to top players like himself.
Djokovic had been aiming to make history by becoming the first player with 25 Grand Slam singles titles. However, he finished the year without winning a major championship for the first time since 2017. This year is the first season since 2002 that Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, and Roger Federer did not win a Slam trophy. Djokovic’s early exit from the U.S. Open matches his previous worst showings at Flushing Meadows in 2005 and 2006. Despite his numerous successes at the tournament, this year proved to be a challenge for Djokovic.
Having recently won an Olympic gold medal at the Paris Games, Djokovic suggested that the physical and mental toll of that achievement may have affected his performance at the U.S. Open. He admitted to feeling mentally and physically drained upon arriving in New York. Djokovic mentioned that he did not have any physical issues but felt out of gas during his match with Popyrin. It was clear that he was not at his best, with 14 double faults and a general lack of energy and motivation.
Moving forward, Popyrin will be looking to reach his first Grand Slam quarterfinal after defeating Djokovic. He will face No. 20 Frances Tiafoe in the next round. Djokovic expressed confidence in Popyrin’s abilities, acknowledging that the young Australian has the potential to beat anyone if he plays well. With Djokovic and Alcaraz out of the tournament, significant upsets have occurred. The draw is now opening up for other players to make their mark at the U.S. Open.
Novak Djokovic, a four-time U.S. Open champion, has a strong history at the tournament, having reached the final in Arthur Ashe Stadium ten times. His titles came in 2011, 2015, 2018, and 2023. However, this year proved to be a different story for Djokovic, as he struggled with his game and ultimately suffered an early exit. Despite his disappointment, Djokovic acknowledged Popyrin’s performance and the unpredictable nature of tennis tournaments. The loss at the U.S. Open marks a challenging moment in Djokovic’s career, but he remains determined to bounce back and continue his pursuit of excellence in the sport.