Australian Upsets Djokovic: Popyrin Shocks the Tennis World at the US Open
In a dramatic turn of events at the US Open, Alexei Popyrin delivered a stunning performance, defeating world No. 2 Novak Djokovic with scores of 6-4, 6-4, 2-6, 6-4. This unexpected victory not only highlighted Popyrin’s meteoric rise but also marked a significant moment in Djokovic’s quest for a 25th Grand Slam singles title.
Having entered the US Open with the finest form of his career, bolstered by a triumphant Montreal Masters campaign, Popyrin, aged 25, showcased his prowess in a match that left the tennis community astounded. For the first time in 23 major tournament appearances, Popyrin has progressed to the second week, creating ripples in the competitive landscape of the sport.
The 28th-seeded Australian seized an early advantage by taking a two-set lead before securing the match in four sets amidst a captivated crowd at Arthur Ashe Stadium. This defeat halted Djokovic’s quest for an unprecedented 25th Grand Slam title and a rare repeat at the US Open. Popyrin now advances to the fourth round, where he will face Frances Tiafoe, the 20th seed, who edged out Ben Shelton in a gripping five-set duel.
Djokovic, reflecting on his performance, expressed disappointment, attributing his struggles to an uncharacteristically high number of double faults—13 in total. “It was just an awful match for me,” Djokovic admitted. “Tournaments like this happen.”
Throughout the match, Djokovic, wearing a knee sleeve from a previous surgery, appeared less formidable than usual. The 37-year-old’s usually dominant presence was replaced by a sense of sluggishness and mental disengagement, traits seldom associated with his illustrious career. Popyrin capitalized on this, delivering a barrage of 50 winners and overcoming his previous defeats to Djokovic earlier in the year.
The result is Djokovic’s earliest exit at Flushing Meadows since his third-round loss to Lleyton Hewitt 18 years ago. Hewitt was present in Popyrin’s player box during this match, witnessing the historic moment.
Reflecting on his victory, Popyrin remarked, “Third time lucky, I guess. We’ve had battles at the Australian Open and Wimbledon before. I had opportunities in those matches but didn’t capitalize. This time was different—I seized my chances and played exceptional tennis.”
The match unfolded with both players initially holding their ground, but Popyrin’s resolute performance turned the tide. He saved five break points while serving at 2-3, eventually clinching the first set by winning the final eight points in succession. Despite facing a series of challenges, including a noticeable limp and an early break in the third set, Popyrin maintained his composure and ultimately triumphed.
Djokovic’s struggle in the third set saw a flurry of unforced errors from Popyrin, yet the Australian No. 2 exhibited remarkable fortitude in the fourth set, overcoming several break points and sealing his victory.
Popyrin’s recent form has been impressive, culminating in his Montreal triumph, where he defeated five top-20 opponents. His progress marks a notable achievement for Australian tennis, with four Australian men advancing to the third round at Flushing Meadows for the first time since 1997.
Djokovic, who had hoped to surpass Margaret Court’s record of 24 major championships and become the first back-to-back US Open champion since Roger Federer’s five consecutive titles from 2004 to 2008, will need to recalibrate his approach. “I expended a lot of energy winning the gold medal and arrived in New York feeling less than fresh,” Djokovic conceded. “I gave it my best shot, but I felt out of gas, and it showed in my play. Life moves on, and I’ll look forward to what’s next.”
As the US Open continues, Popyrin’s victory stands as a testament to his rising status in the tennis world and a reminder of the ever-changing dynamics of the sport.
