New York: Former world number one Caroline Wozniacki crashed out of another major championship when she was stunned 4-6, 6-4, 6-3 by Italian qualifier Camila Giorgi at the US Open on Saturday.

The Dane, who has topped the rankings for more than a year in total but has never won a grand slam title, fought off four match points before succumbing to the world number 136 in the opening match of the night session on Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Wozniacki`s usual problem of struggling to dictate matches came back to haunt her and Giorgi was the aggressor throughout, hitting 46 winners to Wozniacki`s 13.

The 23-year-old Wozniacki has come closest to winning her maiden grand slam title at the U.S. Open, reaching the final in 2009 and making semi-final appearances in 2010 and 2011.

But her lack of power against a big-hitting opponent yet again contributed to her demise.

She saved three match points at 2-5 in the third set, and another in the following game but Giorgi nailed a big forehand winner to end proceedings in two hours and 32 minutes.

Giorgi will meet fellow Italian Roberta Vinci in the fourth round for a place in the quarter-finals.

"It was amazing, this match, especially the first time here on this court," the 21-year-old said. "I never play with (Vinci) but for sure, it will be an interesting match. It will be fun and exciting."

Reuters