Van De Zandschulp Stuns Alcaraz In US Open Upset

Carlos Alcaraz faced an unexpected defeat against Botic Van de Zandschulp at the US Open. Alcaraz, who had previously won the French Open and Wimbledon, was a favourite to secure his third major title of the year at Flushing Meadows. However, his aspirations of becoming the third player to win the French Open, Wimbledon, and US Open in a single season were thwarted by the unseeded Dutchman in the second round.

Carlos Alcaraz suffered a shock defeat to Botic Van de Zandschulp at the US Open. Alcaraz, the French Open and Wimbledon champion, had been tipped to win a third major of the year at Flushing Meadows. However, the Spaniard's hopes of becoming just the third player to win the French Open, Wimbledon and US Open in the same season were dashed by unseeded Dutchman Van de Zandschulp in the second round.

This victory marked Van de Zandschulp's second career win over a top-five opponent. He became only the second Dutch player to achieve this feat at the US Open. Additionally, he is the first from his nation to defeat a top-three player since 1991. His next challenge will be facing Jack Draper.

Van de Zandschulp prevailed 6-1 7-5 6-4 to cause the tournament's first huge shock.

Alcaraz reflected on his performance, stating, "I think my level stayed at the same point all match." He acknowledged that it wasn't enough to secure a win or even create opportunities for himself during the game. "I didn't feel well hitting the ball," he added. "I think I made a lot of mistakes. When I wanted to come back, it was too late."

He continued, "He didn't make a lot of mistakes that I thought he was going to do so I was confused a little bit. I didn't know how to manage that." Alcaraz also mentioned feeling less energetic than expected but refused to use it as an excuse for his loss.

This match ended a 43-match losing streak for Dutch players against ATP top 10 opponents at major tournaments. Van de Zandschulp's triumph is significant not just for him but also for Dutch tennis history.

"History made for ???????? at the US Open," tweeted @usopen on August 30, 2024.

The unexpected result has certainly shaken up expectations for this year's US Open, highlighting how unpredictable tennis can be.