- "Djokovic's Downfall": Alcaraz Eliminates the Tennis Star
Novak Djokovic swung his golden bags onto his back and made his way out of the largest tennis stadium globally following another significant upset at the US Open. After taking down defending champion Carlos Alcaraz, Djokovic became the second top-favored player to crumble in the tournament's third round in New York.
The 37-year-old Serbian suffered a tough defeat at the hands of Australian Alexei Popyrin, with the scoreline reading 4-6, 4-6, 6:2, 4:6. This early exit marked Djokovic's last appearance at the US Open since 2006. "This was one terrible match for me," Djokovic admitted, looking quite stunned. "My serve was horrendous, and I played some of the worst tennis in my career."
The 24-time Grand Slam champion has failed to secure any victories at any major tournament this season since his triumph at the Olympics in Paris. "I invested a lot of energy into clinching the gold medal, and when I arrived in New York, I didn’t feel mentally or physically fresh," Djokovic shared. In the meanwhile, world number three Alcaraz had unexpectedly exited in the second round, losing to Dutchman Botic van de Zandschulp.
Popyrin, seeded at number 28, showcased his potent hardcourt skills and performed some remarkable tennis, much to the crowd's delight at Arthur Ashe Stadium. Post the match, he excitedly raised his arms wide, exhaled his joy, and enjoyed the cheers from the crowd. "This is amazing!" he exclaimed. "Playing against the legend himself in the fourth round feels fantastic."
Popyrin even clinched the Montreal Masters 1000 tournament as part of his preparation and advanced to the fourth round of a Grand Slam for the first time in his professional career.
During last year's tournament, Djokovic had lost the opening two sets 4-6 against his compatriot Laslo Djere, but he showed incredible determination and managed to win the championship. However, this time, while trailing 2-2 in the fourth set, Popyrin seized the crucial break with a powerful forehand, taking the lead 5:2. Although Popyrin stumbled slightly, he regained his composure, securing the largest victory of his career to date.
Djokovic, visibly frustrated, asked, "- What? I missed that serve?" referring to a crucial point he lost during the match. After the match, fans in the stadium echoed, "- What? Did that actually just happen?" in disbelief as Popyrin celebrated his unexpected victory.
