Carlos Alcaraz Knocked Out of US Open by Botic van de Zandschulp in Second-Round Stunner

Unseeded Dutch Giant Killer Stuns World No. 1 in Four Sets

Van de Zandschulp Cruises to Routine First Set, Alcaraz Levels Early Second

Unseeded Dutchman Botic van de Zandschulp caused a major upset at the US Open on Wednesday, defeating world No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz in the second round in four sets, 6-3, 6-7(4), 6-1, 6-2.

The 26-year-old qualifier, ranked 117th in the world, played a near-flawless match, dominating the opening set and breaking Alcaraz three times in the third.

Alcaraz, who won his maiden Grand Slam title at the US Open last year, showed signs of his class in the second set, breaking back from a break down to force a tie-break, which he eventually lost.

Alcaraz Loses Momentum, van de Zandschulp Takes Control

However, the 19-year-old Spaniard's momentum was short-lived as van de Zandschulp broke him twice in the third set to take a commanding lead.

Alcaraz appeared visibly frustrated and was unable to find his rhythm in the fourth set, with van de Zandschulp breaking him twice more to seal the victory in a little over three hours.

Van de Zandschulp's Triumph Continues Dream Run

The victory is the biggest of van de Zandschulp's career, who has never progressed beyond the third round of a Grand Slam before.

He will now face another unseeded player, Corentin Moutet of France, in the third round.

Alcaraz's US Open Title Defense Ends Abruptly

For Alcaraz, the defeat marks a disappointing end to his US Open title defense, which had been highly anticipated following his recent triumph at the Madrid and Barcelona Opens.

The teenager will now have to regroup and focus on the rest of the season, with the ATP Finals in Turin looming in November.