Novak Djokovic faced his earliest exit in 18 years, losing in the third round to Australia’s Alexei Popyrin. The 37-year-old Serbian tennis legend, who has claimed the US Open title four times, was defeated in four sets with a score of 6-4, 6-4, 2-6, 6-4.
This defeat has sparked speculation about Djokovic’s long-term future in the sport as he continues to chase a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title.
Djokovic’s performance on Friday was uncharacteristically error-prone, with 14 double faults and 49 unforced errors marring his game. It also marks the first time since 2017 that Djokovic will not end the year with a Grand Slam title. This marks a challenging year for the tennis star, who has already seen Jannik Sinner claim the Australian Open and Carlos Alcaraz triumph at both the French Open and Wimbledon, dethroning him in the process.
Djokovic’s quest for Grand Slam titles this year was initially derailed by a knee injury that required surgery, causing him to drop out of the French Open right before the quarterfinals. However, he came back strong, but Alcaraz’s game at Wimbledon ended his chances of ever winning that title again.
Friday’s defeat also signifies a historic moment in tennis, as 2024 will be the first year since 2002 where none of the Grand Slam titles have been won by the “Big Three”—Djokovic, the absent Rafael Nadal, or the retired Roger Federer.
Despite this setback, Djokovic did achieve one significant victory in 2024, winning Olympic gold in Paris. He called this emotional conquest, his victory over Alcaraz, his “masterpiece”, the culmination of the Golden Slam of four majors and Olympic gold. However, this title—his 99th career win—may stand as his final crowning moment.
Reflecting on the match, Popyrin expressed his disbelief and excitement at defeating one of the greatest players of all time. “To be in the fourth round of a Grand Slam by beating the greatest of all time is unbelievable,” said the Australian, who was supported by former tennis champion Lleyton Hewitt in his player’s box.
Djokovic’s loss on Friday was further compounded by his inability to convert five break points in the first set, while Popyrin capitalized on his single break point to take the lead. This is especially good for popyrin because he lost to djokovic at the australian open and wimbledon earlier this year.
