Defending champion Novak Djokovic has described his performance at this year’s US Open as some of the worst he has ever played in his career after his shock defeat to Alexei Popyrin in the third round.
Djokovic’s exit comes after Carlos Alcaraz was also eliminated at this year’s US Open.
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Australia’s 28th seed Popyrin’ secured a 6-4 6-4 2-6 6-4 win to hand Djokovic his earliest US Open exit in 18 years.
The Serb will end the year without winning a Grand Slam for the first time since 2017, while his search for a record 25th major title goes on.
“I have played some of the worst tennis I have ever played,” Djokovic said.
“Honestly, the way I felt and the way I played from the beginning of this tournament, third round is a success.”
He said he “spent a lot of energy” winning Olympic gold – his self-proclaimed “biggest sporting achievement” – earlier this month.
“I tried my best, I didn’t have any physical issues. I just felt out of gas, and you could see that. From the first match, I just didn’t find myself on this court.” Djokovic added.
“Life moves on. I’ll try to recalibrate and look forward to what’s next.”
Popyrin, 25, will make his first fourth-round appearance at a Grand Slam when he faces Frances Tiafoe, who moved past fellow American Ben Shelton in a five-set thriller.
1 Comment
He should focus more on himself than Sinner Jannik and Alcaraz. He was well beaten by Popyrin which will go down as the worst defeat of his career.