Nole Djokovic suffered a disappointing third-round exit at the US Open, losing to 28th-seed Alexei Popyrin, marking the first time in five years that he has failed to win a Grand Slam title.
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Djokovic Upset at US Open, Ending Year Without Major for First Time Since 2017
Serbian tennis legend Novak Djokovic's pursuit of history came to an abrupt end at the US Open, as he bowed out in the third round to Alexei Popyrin, snapping a streak of years with at least one Grand Slam title.
Djokovic, the second seed at Flushing Meadows, fell to the 28th-seeded Australian 6-4, 6-4, 2-6, 6-4, marking his earliest exit from the US Open since 2006. This also marks the first year since 2002 that Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, and Roger Federer have all failed to win a Slam title.
Djokovic Upset at US Open, Ending Year Without Major for First Time Since 2017
Djokovic, seeking to become the first player in tennis history with 25 Grand Slam singles titles, appeared out of sorts throughout the match, committing 14 double faults and looking sluggish physically and emotionally.
"It was just an awful match for me," Djokovic admitted. "I wasn’t playing even close to my best. It’s not good to be in that kind of state where you feel OK physically, and of course, you’re motivated because it’s a Grand Slam, but you just are not able to find your game."
Djokovic Upset at US Open, Ending Year Without Major for First Time Since 2017
The Serbian superstar had hoped to make history at the US Open, but his performance fell short of expectations. Djokovic's run at the Olympic gold medal in Paris earlier this month may have taken a toll on his physical and mental well-being.
"Obviously, it had an effect," Djokovic said. "I spent a lot of energy winning the gold, and I did arrive to New York just not feeling fresh mentally and physically. But because it’s the U.S. Open, I gave it a shot and I tried my best."
Djokovic Upset at US Open, Ending Year Without Major for First Time Since 2017
Popyrin, who reached his first Grand Slam quarterfinal by upsetting Djokovic, shared his thoughts on the match. "If he serves well, plays well, he can beat anybody," Djokovic said about Popyrin. "Look, Alcaraz is out. I'm out. Some big upsets. The draw is opening up."
Djokovic's exit from the US Open marks a significant disappointment for the legendary player, who had hoped to add to his record-breaking Grand Slam tally. However, it also presents an opportunity for other players to shine in the absence of the "Big Three."
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
