Defending champion Novak Djokovic expressed disappointment with his performance after losing to Alexei Popyrin in the third round of the US Open, marking his earliest exit in 18 years. Djokovic, a four-time winner in New York, fell 6-4, 6-4, 2-6, 6-4, alongside an uncharacteristic performance that included 14 double faults and 49 unforced errors.
This is one of my worst tennis performances ever. The way I played from the beginning of the tournament reaching the third round is a success.
Novak Djokovic
The 37-year-old will conclude the season without a Grand Slam title for the first time since 2017 and remains on 24 titles, tied with Margaret Court.
Djokovic cited the demands of winning Olympic gold just weeks prior as a factor in his performance. He also stated that “life moves on” and he will be focusing on his next move.