In one of the most spectacular shocks in world tennis, Carlos Alcaraz was defeated by world number 74 Botic van de Zandschulp in the second round of the 2024 US Open at Arthur Ashe Stadium.
Alcaraz had been one of the top candidates before, especially after he won the French Open and Wimbledon, as well as the silver medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics .
How unlikely is this shock? Consider that Van de Zandschulp, who is only 11-18 this season, has seriously considered retiring at age 28 due to his injury struggles during the 2023 season.
Going into the match on the morning of August 30 (Vietnam time), he had never defeated an opponent in the Top 10 at a Grand Slam tournament.
So, how did you beat Alcaraz?
Alcaraz himself also noted van de Zandschulp's style of play, saying it took him by surprise and he did not know how to adjust to the Dutchman's superior performance.
But above all, Alcaraz said, he had to fight with himself for most of the match.
"It's a battle with yourself in your mind throughout the game," Alcaraz said, "To win. You have to be as calm as possible to think better during the game and try to do your best."
I was fighting with my opponent and also fighting with myself in my mind. I couldn't control a lot of emotions. It was a roller coaster in my mind. It can't be like that if I want to think big. I have to improve it. I have to learn from it."
Whether it was a mental battle or physical fatigue, it showed in Alcaraz's game. The world No. 3 converted just 40 percent of his break points, compared to van de Zandschulp's 67 percent, and struggled to win points on his first serve.
It took 35 minutes for Alcaraz to hit his first winner and another 55 minutes for his first break. The Spaniard made 27 unforced errors and, despite showing flashes of brilliance at times, it was ultimately not enough to seal the win.
A day later, Novak Djokovic was also eliminated (by Alexei Popyrin), but the two defeats cannot be placed side by side in terms of meaning.
One is that Djokovic is 37 years old, and at this stage, facing any younger player is difficult. Two is that at least Nole still showed his spirit and will to compete - winning a set after being down 2-0.
So, Alcaraz will have to find a way to overcome himself in the next steps. To become as great as those who came before.
