
Defending champion Novak Djokovic was ousted in the third round by Australia's Alexei Popyrin, in a dramatic turn of events at the 2024 U.S. Open,

The match concluded with a scoreline of 6-4, 6-4, 2-6, 6-4, marking Djokovic's earliest exit from a Grand Slam since the 2017 Australian Open. This defeat also signifies that 2024 will be the first year since 2017 that Djokovic has not secured a Grand Slam title.
Popyrin, the 28th seed, showcased an aggressive game plan, frequently storming the net and forcing Djokovic into errors. Despite a valiant effort in the third set, where Djokovic broke Popyrin on his first chance, the Serbian star could not maintain the momentum.
Djokovic's performance was marred by 14 double faults and 49 unforced errors, his highest in a Grand Slam match. Popyrin capitalized on these mistakes, advancing to face No. 20 seed Frances Tiafoe in the fourth round.
This loss is particularly massive as it marks the first Grand Slam without Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, or Roger Federer in the Round of 16 since the 2004 French Open. Additionally, it ends Djokovic's quest for a record 25th Grand Slam title, a milestone he will now have to pursue in 2025.
On the women's side, Coco Gauff managed to extend her title defense despite a challenging match against Elina Svitolina. Gauff, who turned 20 this year, overcame a first-set deficit to win 3-6, 6-3, 6-3. This victory breaks a five-match losing streak against opponents ranked in the top 50 and propels her into the fourth round.

Gauff's resilience was evident as she made strategic adjustments after the first set, including a brief break to change part of her outfit and splash water on her face.
Her determination paid off as she dominated the second and third sets, closing the match with a powerful 94 mph ace. Gauff's next challenge will be against the winner of the match between Emma Navarro and Marta Kostyuk.
The 2024 U.S. Open continues to deliver unexpected twists, with both Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz exiting early. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on the remaining contenders, including Gauff, who aims to defend her title successfully.
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