Novak Djokovic’s US Open campaign came to a shocking end on Friday with his earliest exit from the tournament in 18 years. The 37-year-old, a four-time US Open champion, was defeated in the third round by 28th-ranked Australian Alexei Popyrin in four sets, 6-4, 6-4, 2-6, 6-4. This loss has sparked renewed questions about Djokovic’s long-term future in tennis, as it leaves him just short of securing a record 25th Grand Slam title.
Djokovic’s performance was marred by an uncharacteristic 14 double faults and 49 unforced errors, marking his first season without a Grand Slam title since 2017. The defeat also comes in a year where the Serb has faced significant setbacks, including losing his Australian Open title to Jannik Sinner and being outplayed by Carlos Alcaraz in the French Open and Wimbledon finals. Sinner’s triumph in Australia also saw him replace Djokovic as the world number one, a title the Serb had held for a combined 428 weeks.
A knee injury requiring surgery forced Djokovic to withdraw from the French Open before his quarter-final match, and despite his efforts, Alcaraz claimed his eighth Wimbledon title, further adding to Djokovic’s woes.
This loss at the US Open marks the first time since 2002 that none of the Grand Slam titles have been claimed by Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, or Roger Federer—the trio often referred to as the ‘Big Three’ of tennis.
Popyrin, who was cheered on by Lleyton Hewitt—the man who famously defeated Djokovic in the third round of the US Open in 2006—expressed his elation after the match. “To be in the fourth round of a Grand Slam by beating the greatest of all time is unbelievable,” he said.
Despite the setbacks, Djokovic did secure one major victory this year—an emotional Olympic gold in Paris earlier in August. He described the win over Alcaraz as his “greatest achievement,” as it made him the sixth player to complete the Golden Slam of all four majors and Olympic gold. This victory, the 99th title of his career, could potentially be his final defining moment.
If Djokovic continues to compete into 2025 and manages to win his 11th Australian Open title in January, he would become the oldest male Grand Slam champion of the modern era. However, his performance on Friday, where he failed to capitalize on five break points in the first set and struggled against Popyrin’s confident play, suggests that the road ahead may be challenging.
Popyrin, who had lost to Djokovic at both the Australian Open and Wimbledon this year, came into the US Open buoyed by his first Masters title win in Montreal. His hardcourt prowess was evident as he took control of the match, breaking Djokovic’s serve multiple times and ultimately sealing a famous victory at Arthur Ashe Stadium. This result could mark a turning point for Djokovic as he faces an uncertain future in the sport.
Key Points
Early Exit: Novak Djokovic was eliminated in the third round of the US Open, marking his earliest exit from the tournament in 18 years.
Defeat Details: Djokovic lost to 28th-ranked Australian Alexei Popyrin in four sets: 6-4, 6-4, 2-6, 6-4.
Uncharacteristic Errors: Djokovic’s performance was marred by 14 double faults and 49 unforced errors.
No Grand Slam Titles in 2024: This is the first time since 2017 that Djokovic will end the season without a Grand Slam title.
Setbacks in 2024: Djokovic lost his Australian Open title to Jannik Sinner, and Carlos Alcaraz defeated him in the French Open and Wimbledon finals. Sinner also overtook Djokovic as the world number one.
Knee Injury: Djokovic’s knee injury required surgery, forcing him to withdraw from the French Open before the quarter-finals.
Historical Context: This is the first time since 2002 that none of the Grand Slam titles were won by Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, or Roger Federer.
Popyrin’s Milestone: Alexei Popyrin, inspired by Lleyton Hewitt, achieved a significant career milestone by defeating Djokovic.
Olympic Gold: Djokovic’s only major victory in 2024 was winning Olympic gold in Paris, completing the Golden Slam.
Future Uncertainty: The loss raises questions about Djokovic’s future, as he faces the possibility of becoming the oldest male Grand Slam champion if he continues to compete.
