US Open LIVE: Novak Djokovic discusses health issues as Carlos Alcaraz has excuse for loss
Express Sport brings you the latest news on day five of the US Open (Image: GETTY)
Day five of the US Open is already upon us and there has been no shortage of drama in New York thus far. Carlos Alcaraz was brutally dumped out by Botic van de Zandschlup overnight in one of the biggest shocks in Grand Slam history.
The young Spaniard was among the favourites to win the title but was beaten in straight sets by his unfancied Dutch opponent. Van de Zandschlup produced the best display of his career to secure a 6-1 7-5 6-4 triumph and set up a meeting with British hopeful Jack Draper.
Novak Djokovic, meanwhile, is safely through to round three after Laslo Djere withdrew from their second-round match in the final set. He was forced to retire with an injury, allowing Djokovic to progress despite blasting his own ‘awful’ serve in his post-match interview.
Hurkacz splits with coach after shock early exit
Hubert Hurkacz has parted ways with long-time coach Craig Boynton less than 24 hours after crashing out in the second round of the US Open.
Hurkacz was the seventh seed in New York but lost to Jordan Thompson in straight sets on Thursday.
Boynton confirmed the news in an Instagram post. “What a special ride these past 5 years have been,” the American wrote.
“We have experienced so many unbelievable highs and have grown so much together, however, sometimes good things must come to an end. Hubi and I have mutually agreed to go our separate ways. So grateful for our time together. I am looking forward to a new chapter in my life and the opportunities that will come.”
Hurkacz shared Boynton’s post to his story and added: “One-of-a-kind ride! Grateful for all we have achieved as a team! Thank you CB!”
Alcaraz’s coach left red-faced
Carlos Alcaraz’s coach showed what he thought of Botic van de Zandschulp while the world No. 3 was losing to the Dutchman on Thursday night.
Juan Carlos Ferrero pointed to Alcaraz’s opponent and mimicked a choking gesture, suggesting that he thought the world No. 74 would bottle his lead and ‘choke’ the match.
But he was quickly silenced by van de Zandschulp, who stunned the third seed 6-1 7-5 6-4.
Qualifier reacts to shock win
Gabriel Diallo is having a tournament to remember at the US Open.
The 6’8 Canadian came through qualifying and recorded his first-ever Grand Slam main draw win in the first round.
He backed it up in spectacular fashion, upsetting 24th seed Arthur Fils 7-5 6-7(3) 6-4 6-4 in round two.
The world No. 143 later said: “Obviously super happy, especially the way that I’ve been playing throughout the summer.
“I’ve been able to put up some good matches and continuously bring a very good level and giving myself some chances to win. Now it’s time to recover, try to analyse the match and get ready for Saturday.”
Gabriel Diallo stunned Arthur Fils (Image: Getty)
Botic van de Zandschulp wanted to retire
Botic van de Zandschulp has revealed that he seriously considered hanging up his racket a few months ago.
Speaking after his incredible victory over Carlos Alcaraz, he said: “At the time I said it, I was thinking about it. It was just more the way things were going.
“I got injured last year, still had some troubles with the injury from last year. It was like if I have to keep playing with the pain I had, then there was a chance maybe I would stop playing.
“I gave myself to the end of the year to see how everything was progressing. Of course, there was a serious thought.”
Rinderknech drank 15 litres of water during match
Arthur Rinderknech has admitted to drinking 15 litres of water during his defeat to Andrey Rublev in the sweltering New York heat.
He said: “We have a pipe that brings fresh air, it feels great, but it’s not enough.
“There was an ice pack in the tub next to it, as well as an ice towel that I put around my neck every time I changed sides.
“I drank, I think, 15 one-litre bottles, which means I drank 15 litres. I ate everything I could, but it’s so hard to eat in this heat. It was extreme.”
Botic van de Zandschulp reveals secret to victory
Botic van de Zandschulp has attributed his victory over Carlos Alcaraz to playing in various Challenger events in the build-up to the US Open.
Speaking after last night’s match, he said: “I needed more self-confidence after Wimbledon. I played a few challengers in Europe and I think that boosted my self-confidence.
“The tour is tough. You can play well and still only have two matches a week.”
