The 2024 US Open has been marked by a series of shocking upsets and impressive performances, with the most notable being the unexpected defeat of Carlos Alcaraz, the world’s number 3 player and 2022 US Open champion. Alcaraz was eliminated in the second round by Botic van de Zandschulp, ranked 74th in the world, in straight sets 6-1, 7-5, 6-4. This loss ended Alcaraz’s 15-match Grand Slam winning streak and his bid to become only the third man in the modern era to win the French Open, Wimbledon, and US Open in the same season.Van de Zandschulp, who had never before defeated a top-three player at a Grand Slam, expressed his surprise at the victory, saying, ‘I’m a little lost for words. It was an incredible evening out here in my first time in the night session on Arthur Ashe’. Alcaraz struggled throughout the match, committing numerous unforced errors and failing to find his rhythm.In contrast to Alcaraz’s upset, world number one Jannik Sinner advanced to the third round with a dominant win over Alex Michelsen, 6-4, 6-0, 6-2. This marked Sinner’s 50th win of the season and his fourth consecutive year reaching the US Open third round.The women’s draw also saw its share of drama, with former champion Naomi Osaka suffering a heartbreaking loss to Karolina Muchova in the second round. Meanwhile, Jessica Pegula, the world’s sixth-ranked female player, overcame some challenges to defeat Sofia Kenin 7-6, 6-3.As the tournament progresses, players continue to battle not only their opponents but also the intense heat in New York. The extreme conditions are testing the athletes’ endurance and adaptability, adding another layer of complexity to the competition.
Key points
- Carlos Alcaraz, world number 3 and 2022 US Open champion, was eliminated in the second round by 74th-ranked Botic van de Zandschulp.
- Jannik Sinner secured his 50th win of the season, advancing to the third round with a dominant performance.
- Former champion Naomi Osaka was defeated by Karolina Muchova in the second round.
- Extreme heat in New York continues to challenge players, adding complexity to the tournament.
