Carlos Alcaraz’s Stunning Defeat at the U.S. Open

Carlos Alcaraz's impressive 15-match Grand Slam unbeaten run came to an end at the U.S. Open with a 6-1, 7-5, 6-4 defeat to 74th-ranked Botic van de Zandschulp. The match marked Alcaraz's earliest exit in a Slam tournament since 2021, as he struggled to find his rhythm under the lights of Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Carlos Alcaraz's remarkable 15-match Grand Slam winning streak was halted at the U.S. Open. In a surprising upset, Alcaraz lost to 74th-ranked Botic van de Zandschulp with a scoreline of 6-1, 7-5, 6-4 in the second round. Despite being the pre-tournament favorite, Alcaraz never found his footing during the match under Arthur Ashe Stadium's retractable roof.

This loss marks Alcaraz's earliest exit from any major tournament since Wimbledon 2021. The match saw Alcaraz making uncharacteristic errors and struggling against van de Zandschulp's powerful serves and forehands, which reached speeds of up to 132 mph. Alcaraz also did not produce a single winner in the first set and the second set saw him double-faulting at critical moments.

Although Alcaraz fought back in the third set, it wasn't enough to turn the tide. The 21-year-old Spaniard, who has four major titles including the 2022 U.S. Open, showed frustration and confusion during the match. Ultimately, van de Zandschulp clinched the victory as Alcaraz's mistakes persisted.

(With inputs from agencies.)