Alexei Popyrin Stuns Novak Djokovic to Reach US Open Fourth Round

In a night of high drama at Arthur Ashe Stadium, Alexei Popyrin showcased the power of determination, delivering the performance of his life to defeat Novak Djokovic. This victory, marking his first time advancing to the second week of a major tournament, is a testament to his unwavering spirit. The 25-year-old Australian, buoyed by his recent triumph at the Montreal Masters, secured a stunning 6-4, 6-4, 2-6, 6-4 victory over the 24-time grand slam champion on Friday.

Popyrin’s Historic Victory

Seeded 28th, Popyrin entered the US Open in peak form, having dismantled a series of higher-ranked opponents to claim his first Masters 1000 title in Montreal. His confidence was evident as he raced to a two-set lead against Djokovic, who was seeking his 25th grand slam title. Popyrin’s aggressive play, highlighted by 50 winners, overwhelmed the second-seeded Djokovic, who appeared a shadow of his usual dominant self.

Despite struggling with form and perhaps fatigue, Djokovic displayed his trademark resilience, managing to claw back the third set and raising hopes of a comeback. However, Popyrin held his nerve in the fourth, saving seven of eight break points and capitalizing on Djokovic’s uncharacteristic errors. After 3 hours and 19 minutes, Popyrin sealed the win with a forehand error from Djokovic, sending the crowd into stunned silence.

A Summer to Remember

This victory marks a new peak in Popyrin’s career, which has been on a sharp upward trajectory this summer. His win in Montreal, where he defeated five top-20 players, has fueled his confidence and belief. With this landmark victory over Djokovic, Popyrin is poised to make a deep run at the US Open, where he will face Frances Tiafoe in the next round.

“I had chances in our previous matches, but this time I took them,” Popyrin said post-match. “It’s incredible to beat someone like Novak at a stage like this. I played some good tennis and am thrilled to be in the fourth round.”

Djokovic’s Struggles Continue

This loss marks Djokovic’s earliest exit at the US Open since 2005. The Serbian great, who arrived in New York fresh off his Olympic triumph, struggled to find his rhythm throughout the match. His 13 double faults were a career-high in a tour-level match, and his movement seemed labored, particularly in the first two sets.

“I just didn’t feel fresh mentally and physically,” Djokovic admitted. “I tried my best, but from the very beginning, I couldn’t find my game. It’s disappointing, but life goes on. I’ll need to recalibrate and see what’s next.”

A Wide-Open Quarter

Popyrin’s victory has blown open his quarter of the draw, with several top seeds already eliminated. He will next face Tiafoe, who outlasted fellow American Ben Shelton in a five-set thriller earlier in the day. With the quarter now up for grabs, Popyrin has a golden opportunity to continue his remarkable run and make his first-ever grand slam semifinal.

Popyrin’s win not only signifies a personal triumph but also a significant shift in men’s tennis. For the first time in 22 years, a season will pass without Djokovic, Roger Federer, or Rafael Nadal winning a major title. Popyrin’s victory is a testament to the growing depth and competitiveness in the sport as the new generation steps forward, marking a historic moment in tennis.