Dutch Underdog Botic van de Zandschulp Upsets Alcaraz with Friendship Power at US Open

In a remarkable turn of events at the United States Open, Dutch tennis player Botic van de Zandschulp has carved out a niche for himself as a formidable competitor, stunning the tennis world with his recent victory over four-time Grand Slam champion Carlos Alcaraz. The 28-year-old van de Zandschulp, currently ranked No. 74 in the world, showcased his talent and determination in a match that will be remembered as one of the tournament's biggest upsets. This is not van de Zandschulp's first foray into the spotlight at the Open; he made headlines back in 2021 when he advanced all the way to the quarterfinals after coming through the qualifying rounds. This year's performance suggests that he may be on a similar trajectory, overturning expectations and proving that his journey is far from over. A key element of his success appears to lie in the support he receives from two special allies: Richard and Victor Pham, brothers and former tennis players who have become an essential part of van de Zandschulp's team. The Phams, who now reside in Manhattan, play a unique role in the athlete's life, providing not just companionship, but also a deep understanding of his background. Speaking Dutch and sharing a love for tennis, they help van de Zandschulp feel connected to his roots while competing in a foreign land. Their friendship dates back to their childhood in the Netherlands, where they first crossed paths on the courts of a Dutch tennis federation training facility. Richard recalls hitting alongside van de Zandschulp when they were just eight years old, and Victor, the younger sibling, soon joined them in the sport. Despite drifting apart over the years, their reunion in 2021 during van de Zandschulp's maiden US Open campaign reignited their bond and led to a new tradition. "Every time I'm coming here, I have dinner with them and they come to all my matches," van de Zandschulp shared, emphasizing the positive impact their presence has had on his performance. "And every time it is working out pretty well." As he prepares to face 25th-seeded Jack Draper of Britain in the third round, the Pham brothers will once again be in attendance, cheering him on from the player’s box. This support not only fuels van de Zandschulp's competitive spirit but also serves as a reminder of the power of friendship and shared history in the high-stakes world of professional sports. Van de Zandschulp’s story illustrates the importance of emotional support in an athlete’s journey, highlighting that even in the individualistic realm of tennis, camaraderie and shared experiences can be the lucky charms that propel players to new heights. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on van de Zandschulp and his dynamic trio, eager to see if they can continue their winning streak at this prestigious event.