Tennis

Rafael Nadal's illustrious career may have reached its twilight as he suffered a stunning defeat to Botic Van De Zandschulp in the Davis Cup Finals. The 22-time Grand Slam champion's 29-match singles winning streak in the competition was snapped by the world No. 80, putting Spain on the brink of elimination.Nadal, playing in front of his home crowd in Malaga, started nervously, but gradually settled into the match. However, Van De Zandschulp seized the initiative in the first set, breaking Nadal's serve in the seventh game and holding on to take the set 6-4.The second set followed a similar pattern, with Van De Zandschulp breaking Nadal's serve early on. Nadal fought back to break back, but Van De Zandschulp regained the advantage and eventually served out the match 6-4.The defeat leaves Spain facing an uphill battle to reach the semifinals. World No. 3 Carlos Alcaraz will need to defeat Tallon Griekspoor in the second singles match, and Spain will likely need to win the doubles match as well.Nadal's loss has raised questions about his future. The 38-year-old has been battling injuries in recent years, and this defeat may signal the end of his competitive career. If Spain fails to win the next two rubbers, Tuesday's match will be Nadal's last.

Daniil Medvedev, Jack Draper, and Iga Swiatek Advance at the US OpenDaniil Medvedev, the former world No. 1, has defied expectations by reaching the third round of the US Open despite recent struggles. Despite concerns about his serve, Medvedev has dropped only one set in two matches, showcasing his exceptional defensive skills. His next opponent, Flavio Cobolli, is a rising star known for his explosive tennis. Cobolli has impressed this summer, reaching the Citi Open final and defeating top players like Felix Auger Aliassime and Tommy Paul. Medvedev's serve remains a question mark, but his ability to disrupt opponents' rhythm could prove decisive.Jack Draper, the 25th seed, faces a tough challenge in Botic Van de Zandschulp, who stunned Carlos Alcaraz in the second round. Van de Zandschulp's aggressive style and familiarity with the US Open courts make him a formidable opponent. However, Draper's powerful serve and left-handed advantage could give him an edge.In the women's draw, Iga Swiatek, the world No. 1, will face Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova in a rematch of their lopsided encounter in Rome last year. Pavlyuchenkova, a former Roland Garros finalist, has shown signs of improvement recently, reaching the quarterfinals in Cincinnati. Her ability to hit with pace from both wings could pose a threat to Swiatek, who has occasionally struggled on her forehand side.

In a stunning upset that sent shockwaves through the tennis world, 74th-ranked Botic van de Zandschulp stunned four-time Grand Slam champion Carlos Alcaraz in the second round of the US Open, 6-1, 7-5, 6-4.Alcaraz, the 21-year-old Spanish sensation, was aiming to become only the third player in the Open Era to win Roland Garros, Wimbledon, and the US Open in the same season. However, his hopes were dashed by a relentless van de Zandschulp, who played with unwavering composure and precision.Alcaraz, who had not lost a set in his previous two matches at the US Open, struggled to find his rhythm against the Dutchman's powerful serve and aggressive groundstrokes. The Spaniard committed a staggering 28 unforced errors, a testament to the pressure van de Zandschulp applied throughout the match.Van de Zandschulp, who had not advanced past the second round of a Grand Slam tournament in over two years, played with the confidence of a seasoned veteran. He broke Alcaraz's serve five times and saved all three break points he faced.The victory marks a remarkable achievement for van de Zandschulp, who has been steadily improving his game over the past year. It also raises questions about Alcaraz's form, who has not looked his best since winning the Madrid Open in May.Despite the setback, Alcaraz remains one of the most promising players in the world. He has already achieved more than most players his age, and he will undoubtedly bounce back from this disappointment.However, for now, the spotlight belongs to van de Zandschulp, who has proven that anything is possible in tennis. The Dutchman will face 12th-seeded Pablo Carreno Busta in the third round, where he will look to continue his dream run at the US Open.

Naomi Osaka, Denis Shapovalov, and Sloane Stephens Headline Day 1 at Stadiium 1The first day of the Stadiium 1 tournament promises thrilling matchups as top players Naomi Osaka, Denis Shapovalov, and Sloane Stephens take to the court.Naomi Osaka vs. Sara ErraniOsaka, a four-time Grand Slam champion, will face off against veteran Sara Errani in a rematch of their 2016 Miami Open encounter, which Osaka won in straight sets. Despite early-season struggles, Osaka has shown signs of regaining her form. Errani, known for her tenacity, will pose a formidable challenge.Denis Shapovalov vs. Botic van de ZandschulpShapovalov, once ranked in the Top 10, has slipped out of the Top 100. He will face the rising star Botic van de Zandschulp, who has earned a reputation for his resilience. With no previous head-to-head record, this match promises to be a physical battle.Sloane Stephens vs. Mayar SherifStephens, a former US Open champion, will take on Mayar Sherif, a rising star with a solid arsenal. Sherif has the potential to challenge top players, while Stephens has proven her ability to compete at the highest level. This matchup is expected to be a competitive baseline battle.Predictions:* Naomi Osaka* Botic van de Zandschulp* Sloane Stephens