Defending champion Novak Djokovic was defeated in the third round of the U.S. Open by 28th-seeded Alexei Popyrin of Australia. Djokovic had been aiming to become the first player in tennis history with 25 Grand Slam singles titles. The loss marks the first year since 2017 that Djokovic has not won a major championship, and the first season since 2002 without a Grand Slam title won by any of the Big Three, including Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer.
The match was Djokovic’s worst showing at Flushing Meadows in years, with the defeat equalling his previous early exits in 2005 and 2006. Popyrin, who had been 0-3 against Djokovic, showcased a strong performance with his powerful forehand and effective serve-and-volley approach. Djokovic, on the other hand, struggled with double faults and was not able to maintain his usual high standards throughout the match.
Popyrin will now face No. 20 Frances Tiafoe in the quarterfinals as he aims to reach his first Grand Slam quarterfinal. Djokovic’s unexpected defeat at the U.S. Open has shifted the dynamics of the tournament, marking a significant moment in men’s tennis as the race for the title continues.
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