Carlos Alcaraz has suffered one of the biggest US Open shocks of all-time with his defeat against Botic van de Zandschulp.
Alcaraz loves playing at the US Open, but his dreams of a second title in New York have come to an abrupt end.
The Spaniard lost 1-6, 5-7, 4-6 against the world number 74, with the Dutchman earning the highest-ranked win of his career.
US Open third seed Alcaraz won the title in 2022, and was enjoying a stunning 15-match winning streak in Grand Slams.
And rather than focusing solely on his own shortcomings, Alcaraz praised his opponent, saying in his press conference: “First of all he played great. He played really good tennis.”
Tennis fans praise Carlos Alcaraz for his comments about Botic van de Zandschulp
Alcaraz added: “I thought he would give me more free points. He didn’t make a lot of mistakes I thought he was going to make.. it was confusing a bit.”
Tennis fans have now reacted to the comments, praising Alcaraz’s attitude, with one writing on X: “Well respected the opponent and took the loss gracefully. Great spirit.”
A second user commented: “Respected the opponent,” with a third saying: “Well said Carlos. Come back stronger next time.”
A fourth tennis fan said: “Class act Alcaraz,” with a fifth noting: “Not everyone is so honest or articulate in defeat. Not an easy thing, that.”
Other fans instead focused on a much-needed break for Alcaraz after his busy year so far, with one saying: “Let the man rest. He’s played so much and he needs a break.”
Another worried fan commented: “Emotionally and physically fried after Olympics. He needs serious time off.”
What is next for Carlos Alcaraz after his US Open exit?
Alcaraz was aiming to become the third man to win the French Open, Wimbledon and the US Open in the same year, with Rod Laver and Rafael Nadal having achieved the feat.
But it wasn’t meant to be, with Van de Zandschulp now set to take on British star Jack Draper in round three.
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Alcaraz meanwhile should take some time to rest and recover after what has been a very busy summer for the 21-year-old.
But according to Jose Morgado, very little rest can be expected, with Alcaraz set for a busy end of the year.
The journalist noted that the four-time Grand Slam winner is set to comete at the Davis Cup, Laver Cup and ATP Finals, along with appearances in Beijing, Shanghai, Saudi Arabia and Paris Bercy.
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