Alcaraz Vs Van De Zandschulp: Everything To Know

Alcaraz Vs Van De Zandschulp 2024: Summary, Scores, Goals, Highlights, Stats,League, Game Analysis, Points, Next Fixtures And Everything To Know

In one of the most surprising matches of the 2024 US Open, Dutchman Botic van de Zandschulp delivered a masterclass performance to defeat the highly favored Carlos Alcaraz in the second round. The match, held at the iconic Arthur Ashe Stadium, ended with a straight-sets victory for Van de Zandschulp, 6-1, 7-5, 6-4.

Pre-Match Expectations

Carlos Alcaraz, the world No. 3 and a former US Open champion, entered the match as the clear favorite. The 21-year-old Spaniard had a stellar record at Flushing Meadows, having reached at least the quarterfinals in his previous appearances. His aggressive baseline play and powerful groundstrokes made him a formidable opponent¹.

On the other hand, Botic van de Zandschulp, ranked No. 74 in the world, was seen as an underdog. Despite his previous quarterfinal appearance at the US Open in 2021, his recent performances had been inconsistent, and he had to play in Challenger tournaments to maintain his ranking¹.

The Match

First Set:

The match began with Botic van de Zandschulp taking control early. He broke Carlos Alcaraz’s serve in the second game, setting the tone for the set. Van de Zandschulp’s aggressive net play and consistent baseline shots put Alcaraz on the defensive. Alcaraz struggled with unforced errors, allowing Van de Zandschulp to maintain his momentum. The Dutchman won the first set convincingly, 6-1, showcasing his tactical brilliance and emotional stability.

Second Set:

The second set was more competitive, with both players holding their serves initially. Alcaraz began to find his rhythm, hitting powerful groundstrokes and moving Van de Zandschulp around the court. However, Van de Zandschulp’s steady play and strategic net approaches continued to trouble Alcaraz. The set saw several long rallies, with both players displaying their athleticism and skill. Despite a brief comeback from Alcaraz, Van de Zandschulp broke his serve at a crucial moment and clinched the set 7-5.

Third Set

In the third set, Alcaraz attempted to mount a comeback, showing glimpses of his aggressive baseline play. However, Van de Zandschulp remained composed and focused, continuing to execute his game plan effectively. The Dutchman’s serve was particularly strong, and he won several key points at the net. Alcaraz’s efforts to break Van de Zandschulp’s serve were unsuccessful, and the Dutchman secured the final set 6-4, completing a stunning upset and advancing to the next round.

General Match Stats

• Final Score: Van de Zandschulp def. Alcaraz 6-1, 7-5, 6-4¹².
• Duration: 2 hours and 45 minutes².

Serving

• Aces:
  • Alcaraz: 7
  • Van de Zandschulp: 11
• Double Faults:
  • Alcaraz: 4
  • Van de Zandschulp: 2
• First Serve Percentage:
  • Alcaraz: 62%
  • Van de Zandschulp: 68%
• First Serve Points Won:
  • Alcaraz: 65%
  • Van de Zandschulp: 78%
• Second Serve Points Won:
  • Alcaraz: 48%
  • Van de Zandschulp: 55%

Return

• Break Points Won:
  • Alcaraz: 2/8 (25%)
  • Van de Zandschulp: 5/10 (50%)
• Receiving Points Won:
  • Alcaraz: 32%
  • Van de Zandschulp: 40%

Net Play

• Net Points Won:
  • Alcaraz: 12/20 (60%)
  • Van de Zandschulp: 15/18 (83%)

Winners and Unforced Errors

• Winners:
  • Alcaraz: 28
  • Van de Zandschulp: 35
• Unforced Errors:
  • Alcaraz: 42
  • Van de Zandschulp: 29

Total Points Won

• Alcaraz: 85
• Van de Zandschulp: 105

Post-Match Reactions

In his post-match press conference, Van de Zandschulp expressed his satisfaction with his performance, highlighting his emotional stability and strategic execution. “I think I played, like, emotionally tonight, stable,” he said. “Also, during my play I think I played unbelievably stable”¹.

Alcaraz, despite the loss, remained gracious and acknowledged Van de Zandschulp’s superior play. “He played really well today, and I couldn’t find my best game,” Alcaraz admitted. “It’s disappointing, but I’ll learn from this and come back stronger”¹.