Two and a half months after a career-defining triumph over Spanish tennis sensation Carlos Alcaraz at the US Open, Botic van de Zandschulp could find himself facing another Spanish icon at the Davis Cup Finals in Malaga. This time, the Dutchman might have the opportunity to go up against Rafael Nadal, as the legendary Spaniard prepares to potentially play his last professional matches. It’s a match that could be a poignant moment in Nadal’s illustrious career and another shot at glory for van de Zandschulp, whose stock has been on the rise.
The Davis Cup Finals could mark a significant chapter in van de Zandschulp’s career, especially given his recent success on one of tennis’s grandest stages. In September, the Dutchman shocked the tennis world with a stunning straight-sets victory over Carlos Alcaraz at the US Open, defeating the 2022 champion 6-1, 7-5, 6-4 in a match that showcased van de Zandschulp’s remarkable form. This win ended Alcaraz’s 15-match Grand Slam winning streak, which had seen the young Spaniard claim titles at Roland Garros and Wimbledon earlier in the year.
Reflecting on his upset victory at Arthur Ashe Stadium, van de Zandschulp spoke candidly about the experience while preparing for the possibility of facing Nadal. “It was a special moment for me,” he shared. “To beat a player of Carlos’s caliber in such a setting was unforgettable, but I’m realistic—he will always be the favorite if we meet again. I was able to make him uncomfortable that day, but he’s a champion and will always be tough to beat.”
The Dutchman’s performance against Alcaraz was nothing short of extraordinary. From the outset, van de Zandschulp demonstrated that he was ready to compete at the highest level. He dominated the early stages of the match, leaving Alcaraz visibly frustrated and unable to find his rhythm. In the opening set, the Dutchman broke Alcaraz’s serve twice, quickly building a commanding lead. A backhand winner secured a 3-0 advantage, and by the end of the set, van de Zandschulp had wrapped things up with a love hold in just 30 minutes.
The second set was more competitive, as Alcaraz sought to regain control. However, van de Zandschulp maintained his composure, exploiting any lapse in the Spaniard’s game. Despite surrendering a break lead at one point, the Dutchman responded with resilience, breaking Alcaraz again late in the set to claim a two-sets-to-love lead. “It was crucial to stay focused,” van de Zandschulp noted. “Carlos started playing better, and I had to keep believing I could win.”
The final set was a tense affair, with both players trading breaks. Van de Zandschulp’s aggression on the return and steadiness in extended rallies paid dividends, allowing him to seize a decisive break at 4-4. Serving for the match, he showed no signs of nerves, clinching victory with a service winner. “The moment was surreal,” he said. “To finish like that, with the crowd roaring, is something I will never forget.”
Van de Zandschulp’s victory was built on a combination of powerful serving and fearless shot-making. He struck six breaks of serve and consistently pressured Alcaraz, who was unable to find his usual flow. The Dutchman capitalized on over 30 unforced errors from the Spaniard and effectively dictated play in mid-range rallies, further underscoring his tactical acumen and poise.
While the victory over Alcaraz represents a career highlight, van de Zandschulp knows that replicating such a performance against Nadal—if the opportunity arises—would be a different challenge altogether. Nadal, who has announced that the Davis Cup Finals may mark the end of his legendary career, will undoubtedly draw on every ounce of experience and tenacity. Facing Nadal in Spain, in front of an adoring home crowd, would be a momentous occasion. “It would be an honor to play Rafa,” van de Zandschulp said. “He’s one of the greatest of all time, and to potentially be part of his final match would be special.”
The Dutchman’s focus remains on performing well for his team, but he understands the weight of a possible encounter with Nadal. “Rafa has given so much to this sport, and if it’s his last tournament, I think everyone in the tennis world will be watching. I would approach the match with respect and give my best.”
Beyond the prospect of a duel with Nadal, van de Zandschulp’s trajectory continues to point upward. His victory over Alcaraz demonstrated that he belongs among the sport’s elite, and his self-belief is evident. “I’m not done yet,” he asserted. “I’ve worked hard to get to this level, and I want to keep improving. There are many great players out there, but I believe I can compete with them.”
The rise of van de Zandschulp adds another layer of intrigue to the Davis Cup Finals. As he prepares to potentially face one of the game’s titans in a high-stakes encounter, fans can only anticipate the drama, skill, and determination that will be on display. Whether or not he meets Nadal, van de Zandschulp’s journey is one to watch, marked by resilience, passion, and the desire to create more unforgettable moments on the world’s biggest stages.