New York, Aug 31 (UNI) Alexei Popyrin, making his debut as a seeded player at the US Open, delivered a career-defining performance on Saturday IST, stunning second-seeded Novak Djokovic 6-4, 6-4, 2-6, 6-4 in the third round. This victory is a crowning achievement in what has already been a standout year for the 25-year-old Australian, who became the first Australian since Lleyton Hewitt in 2003 to win an ATP 1000 title.
Popyrin’s win propels him into the pre-quarterfinals of a Grand Slam for the first time in his career, marking a significant milestone in his tennis journey. In contrast, Djokovic’s defeat represents his earliest exit from the US Open in 18 years. The 37-year-old Serbian will finish the year without a Grand Slam title for the first time since the injury-riddled 2017 season. Despite this, Djokovic completed a Golden Slam earlier this month by securing the gold medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
The match at Arthur Ashe Stadium saw Popyrin overcoming initial challenges, including squandering three breakpoint opportunities in the seventh game of the first set. Nevertheless, he broke Djokovic’s serve in the ninth game to take the lead. Popyrin’s momentum continued as he capitalized on Djokovic’s unforced errors in the second set to go 2-0 up.
Djokovic, determined to fight back, took the third set after breaking Popyrin’s serve in the sixth game. However, Popyrin regained control in the fourth set, breaking Djokovic’s serve in the fifth game despite saving three breakpoints. He extended his lead to 5-2 before Djokovic managed to close the gap to 5-4. With the match on the line, Popyrin’s powerful serving helped him clinch the victory in four sets.
Reflecting on his breakthrough win, Popyrin said, “Honestly, we had some battles at the Australian Open and at Wimbledon. I had my chances in those matches but didn’t take them. This time, I seized my opportunities and played some great tennis.” He added, “It’s unbelievable to reach the fourth round after so many attempts and to do it against one of the greatest players of all time.”
The Australian’s triumph follows a dramatic night at the US Open, where Carlos Alcaraz was knocked out by Botic van de Zandschulp. Popyrin will now face home favorite Frances Tiafoe in the pre-quarterfinals, continuing his impressive run in the tournament.
