Alexei Popyrin, an Australian 28 seed, surprised the tennis world by defeating Novak Djokovic, the second seed. The 24-year-old Popyrin secured a 6-4, 6-4, 2-6, 6-Four victory, reaching the spherical of 16 at a significant match for the primary time in his profession.
Djokovic, who had not too long ago gained Olympic gold, gave the impression to be fighting fatigue towards a decided and energetic Popyrin.The Australian capitalized on key moments, securing his first win over a top-ranked participant and inflicting one of many greatest upsets of the match.
Popyrin took management early within the match, breaking Djokovic’s serve within the first set to take a 5-Four lead. He then held his serve to win the set, demonstrating his willpower towards the world-renowned champion.
The Australian maintained his momentum within the second set, breaking Djokovic’s serve once more to take a 3-2 lead. Popyrin’s aggressive model, that includes a pointy serve and volley, helped him safe the second set and put Djokovic beneath stress.
The Serbian champion fought again within the third set, breaking Popyrin’s serve with a robust forehand winner to take the set 6-2 and revive his hopes of a comeback.
Alexei Popyrin celebrates a break within the 4th set towards Novak Djokovic. (USA TODAY Sports activities Picture)
Nonetheless, Popyrin refused to again down. Within the fourth set, he broke Djokovic’s serve as soon as extra with a surprising forehand winner, eliciting a roar from the group and taking a vital 3-2 lead. Popyrin held his nerve to shut out the match, as Djokovic’s forehand sailed lengthy on match level, confirming the upset.
This loss is a major blow for Djokovic, who was striving to win his 25th Grand Slam title. For Popyrin, the victory marks a career-defining second, highlighting his potential and propelling him into the spherical of 16 at a Grand Slam for the primary time.
