MATCH REPORT | 2024 US Open: Impressive Draper eliminates Alcaraz's vanquisher Van De Zandschulp

Jack Draper defeats Botic Van De Zandschulp in straight sets 6-3, 6-4, 6-2, advancing to the fourth round of the US Open. The British No. 1 remains unbeaten in sets in the tournament, following dominant victories over Zhizhen Zhang and Facundo Diaz Acosta, and is emerging as a serious contender.

Draper faced the Dutchman who was inspired after the best victory of his career in the second round, defeating world No. 3 and 4-time Grand Slam champion Carlos Alcaraz. The Brit is in the Round of 16 for the second consecutive year and is a player to watch for a deep run.

Draper (No. 25) started strong, securing an early break to lead 3-0. The 22-year-old had some issues with his first serve (only 41%), but his effectiveness with the ball in play was enough to avoid any major troubles.

Van De Zandschulp (No. 74) couldn’t recover from the early break. With 13 winners and 12 unforced errors, he put up a fight against Draper despite the Brit's favoritism but lacked the personality he showed against Alcaraz in the previous round, allowing Draper to close the set 6-3.

Both players elevated their level in the second set, mostly playing short points due to their effective serving. Both had over 70% first serve accuracy and won over 70% of those points, resulting in few break points throughout the set. Draper needed just one opportunity in the 7th game to break and take the lead, then extended his advantage with a 6-4 win on his fourth set point.

The Dutchman played his best tennis in the second set, but Draper's conviction limited his opportunities. In the third set, the world No. 25 saved three break points early on, which was the only time he faced difficulties. With the score at 2-2, Draper went on a streak of four consecutive games, largely due to his opponent's errors.

Towards the end of the match, Van De Zandschulp appeared almost resigned, displaying a low level of play. The Dutchman had 5 consecutive double faults, and Draper even won a game without having to hit a single ball. With two breaks in his favor and a strong service game, the Brit closed out another convincing victory, this time 6-3, 6-4, 6-2.

His next challenge will be against the Czech Tomas Machac (No. 39), who, like Draper, has had an inspired run at Flushing Meadows and has yet to lose a set after three impressive wins.