Novak Djokovic expressed disappointment and acknowledged exceptional play from his Round 3 US Open opponent, Alexei Popyrin, in a press conference. Djokovic admitted to subpar performance, particularly with serving due to a low first serve percentage and numerous double faults.
He attributed his struggles to the quick surface and pressure on his service game from opponents in form. Djokovic also discussed the impact of the Olympics on his performance and the competitive draw, with many potential title contenders. Despite the loss, Djokovic expressed respect for Alexei Popyrin’s victory and acknowledged the unpredictability of the tournament. The conversation briefly shifted to Serbian during the press conference.
Novak Djokovic in 2024
Currently the world no.2, Djokovic played his last match on the 30th of August when he was overcome by world no.28 Alexei Popyrin 6-4 6-4 2-6 6-4 in the 3rd round of the U.S. Open (draw).
At present, during this year Djokovic owns a composed 31-8 record. The Serbian conquered 1 title in Paris. The Serbian was the finalist in Wimbledon.
He is also scheduled to play in Paris (Rolex Paris Masters) after Shanghai. The main draw will start on the 30th of September.
Popyrin at the U.S. Open, ranking, and results in 2024
Now ranked no.28, Alexei owns a compiled 25-16 record in 2024. Alexei is now having a run at the U.S. Open where he ousted the world no.340 Soon-Woo Kwon 7-5 6-2 6-3
, the world no.43 Pedro Martinez Portero 6-2 6-4 6-0 and the world no.2 Novak Djokovic 6-4 6-4 2-6 6-4.Alexei Popyrin will face the world no.20 Frances Tiafoe in the 4th round. They have never competed against each other as of now on the main tour.
Popyrin clinched 1 title in 2024 in Montreal.
He is also scheduled to play in Tokyo (Japan Open Tennis Championships). The main draw will start on the 25th of September.
Novak Djokovic and Alexei Popyrin played each other 4 times. Their actual head to head record is 3-1 for Djokovic.