Tennis-Popyrin says he never doubted chances against Djokovic after US Open shock upset

Aug 30, 2024; Flushing, NY, USA; Alexei Popyrin (AUS) after beating Novak Djokovic (SRB) on day five of the 2024 U.S. Open tennis tournament at USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Australian Alexei Popyrin might have been the underdog on Friday but he never doubted his chances against 24-times major winner Novak Djokovic, as he executed an extraordinary 6-4 6-4 2-6 6-4 upset to reach the fourth round at the U.S. Open.

The former number one had already beaten Popyrin this year in the second round of the Australian Open and third round at Wimbledon, and fans inside Arthur Ashe Stadium expected another drubbing weeks after Djokovic won Olympic gold.