Novak Djokovic lost a record-breaking US Open championship because of mistakes and fatigue.
31 August 2024, New Delhi
Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz are the unexpected departures of two of the biggest names in tennis, the 2024 US Open has turned into an unpredictable roller coaster. When unseeded Botic van de Zandschulp surprisingly overcame Spanish sensation Alcaraz, fans were stunned in shock. But the surprises didn’t end there.
There was yet another significant upset in the competition a day later. The 28-seeded Alexei Popyrin defeated the top-seeded and two-time champion Novak Djokovic in a fierce match at Flushing Meadows. Popyrin halted Djokovic’s attempt to become the first tennis player to win 25 Grand Slam singles titles with a 6-4, 6-4, 2-6, 6-4 triumph.
For the first time since 2017, Djokovic has now concluded a season without taking home at least one major championship after this loss. This was an uncommon situation that hadn’t happened since 2010. Given Djokovic’s prior success, which includes a thrilling gold medal win at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, it is extremely surprising that he lost. It was widely expected that he would maintain that form all the way to the US Open.
Throughout the match, Djokovic committed numerous uncharacteristic mistakes and double faults that cost him. He appeared tired, as seen by his lack of energy and alertness. Due to his high level of activity, Djokovic hasn’t had enough time to fully recuperate from knee surgery he underwent earlier this year. He may have left abruptly due to tiredness, even though his knee looked to be in fine condition.
In his remarkable career, the 37-year-old Djokovic lost out on this exceptional opportunity.Djokovic has won the US Open four times, with victories in 2011, 2015, 2018, and 2023. Additionally, he has advanced to eight Arthur Ashe Stadium finals. However, in 2024, his dreams of taking home a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam victory were dashed.