Defending champion Novak Djokovic was eliminated in the third round of the U.S. Open by Alexei Popyrin of Australia with a 6-4, 6-4, 2-6, 6-4 loss. Djokovic was aiming to make history with 25 Grand Slam singles titles, but fell short after knee surgery earlier in the year. This marks the first year since 2017 that Djokovic has not won a major championship. Additionally, the 2024 season becomes the first since 2002 without a Grand Slam title for the Big Three of men’s tennis. Popyrin’s win was a significant breakthrough as he has struggled against Djokovic in the past and has not advanced past the third round in majors before. Djokovic appeared physically sluggish in the match, with Popyrin serving impeccably and hitting powerful forehands. Popyrin will now face Frances Tiafoe in his quest to reach his first Grand Slam quarterfinal. Djokovic’s exit at the U.S. Open came after Carlos Alcaraz, previously a tournament favorite, was eliminated in an earlier round.
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