Past US Open Shocking Losses

Australian Open champion Madison Keys was outclassed by Mexico’s Renata Zarazua in the first round, while former champion Daniil Medvedev was defeated by Benjamin Bonzi, continuing his poor season. Here’s a look back at some notable shocking losses in US Open history that have left a mark on fans.

Marin Cilic’s Dominant Display Against Roger Federer (2014 Semi-finals)

In the 2014 US Open semi-finals, Marin Cilic delivered a classic performance by defeating Roger Federer. Cilic entered the match as the underdog, having lost to Federer in their previous five encounters. However, he produced a superb display, winning 6-3, 6-4, 6-4, and securing a place in the final. This remains Cilic’s only victory over the Swiss legend. He went on to win the tournament, defeating Kei Nishikori, who had upset Novak Djokovìc in the semi-finals. This victory marked Cilic’s only Grand Slam title to date.

Leylah Fernandez Upsets Naomi Osaka (2021 Third Round)

The 2021 US Open featured one of the most shocking results in tennis history when Emma Raducanu became the first qualifier to win the title. In the third round, Leylah Fernandez stole the headlines by defeating former champion and pre-tournament favorite Naomi Osaka. Fernandez not only bested Osaka but also continued to showcase her talent by overcoming quality players like Aryna Sabalenka on her way to the final, where she ultimately faced Raducanu.

John Millman Stuns Roger Federer (2018 Fourth Round)

John Millman was considered an underdog with little chance against five-time champion Roger Federer in the fourth round of the 2018 US Open. This was Millman’s first time reaching the fourth round of a Grand Slam, and he had never won a match against Federer before. However, Millman defied the odds, coming back from a set down to win a thrilling match with scores of 3-6, 7-5, 7-6, 7-6. The two players faced each other again in the 2020 Australian Open fourth round, where Federer got his revenge.

Alexei Popyrin Upsets Defending Champion Novak Djokovìc (2024 Third Round)

As the defending champion, Novak Djokovìc entered the 2024 US Open hoping to secure his 25th Grand Slam title. In the third round, he faced Alexei Popyrin, a familiar opponent. They had met twice earlier that year, with Djokovìc winning both encounters at the Australian Open and Wimbledon. However, in a surprising turn, Djokovìc lost the first two sets 6-4, 6-4. Although he fought back and won the third set 6-2, Popyrin ultimately claimed victory in the fourth set.

Roberta Vinci Edges Serena Williams (2015 Semi-finals)

Roberta Vinci made headlines in the 2015 US Open semi-finals with an incredible performance against Serena Williams. Despite being an underdog, Vinci displayed phenomenal tennis, coming back from a set down to defeat Williams 2-6, 6-4, 6-4, which secured her a spot in her first Grand Slam final. However, Vinci’s quest for a major title ended when she faced Flavia Pennetta in the final and lost in straight sets, 7-6, 6-2. In that match, Pennetta made history by becoming the first woman to win her first major title after turning 30.