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Djokovic arrived at the tournament with confidence after his gold medal triumph at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, and was tipped to lift a record-extending 25th grand slam title.

However, the Serbian's hopes of a fifth success in New York were dashed as he followed fellow favourite Carlos Alcaraz out of the competition in the third round.

Popyrin emerged victorious in three hours and 18 minutes, prevailing 6-4 6-4 2-6 6-4 to confirm Djokovic's earliest exit from the tournament in 18 years, adn the Serb wasn't happy with himself at all.

"I have played some of the worst tennis I have ever played," Djokovic said.

"Honestly, the way I felt and the way I played from the beginning of this tournament, third round is a success.

"I tried my best, I didn't have any physical issues. I just felt out of gas, and you could see that. From the first match, I just didn't find myself on this court.

"Life moves on. I'll try to recalibrate and look forward to what's next."

Djokovic was far from his clinical best, serving a career-high 14 double faults in a grand slam match and committing 49 unforced errors.

The Serbian will also end the year without winning a grand slam title, the first time he has done so since 2017.

But the day belonged to Popyrin, saving 12 of the 16 break points he faced against the world No.2, finding particular success with his forehand as 31 of his 49 winners came from that shot.

Popyrin will now face Frances Tiafoe for a place in the quarter-finals.

It was third time lucky for the Australian against Djokovic.

"We've had some battles at the Australian Open and Wimbledon," Popyrin said.

"I had some chances and those matches and didn't take them, and this time I was able to take my chances.

"It's unbelievable because I've been in the third round about 15 times and I haven't been able to get to the fourth.

"To be able to do it against the greatest of all time is unbelievable.

"The hard work paid off."