Novak’s Indian Wells marketing campaign ended unexpectedly early, as he suffered a second-round defeat in his first match on the event.
Dutchman Botic van de Zandschulp, ranked eighty fifth on the earth, pulled off a serious upset, defeating the five-time champion 6-2, 3-6, 6-1.
Novak struggled to seek out his rhythm, with inconsistency plaguing his sport, notably within the first and third units. A excessive variety of unforced errors prevented him from settling in, finally proving pricey in his bid to succeed in the following spherical.
The 24-time Grand Slam winner was properly under his greatest within the opening set, and Van de Zandschulp took full benefit. In simply 31 minutes, Novak racked up 14 unforced errors, whereas the Dutchman performed clear, committing solely 5. Dictating the rallies with confidence, Van de Zandschulp broke within the third and fifth video games and closed out the set 6-2, leaving Novak with simply 13 factors gained.
The sixth seed responded within the second set, elevating his stage and taking cost. Taking part in with extra intent, he broke twice to surge forward 5-1. Though Van de Zandschulp clawed again one break, Novak remained composed and closed out the set 6-3 to pressure a decider.
Nevertheless, the momentum swung again to the Dutchman within the closing set, as Novak’s errors resurfaced. Van de Zandschulp capitalized, breaking twice and sustaining his composure to seal the match in fashion.
Coming into the primary draw as a “fortunate loser,” Van de Zandschulp made probably the most of his alternative, scoring one of many largest wins of his profession after two hours and two minutes.
Novak will look to bounce again on the Miami Open, the second Masters 1000 occasion of the 2025 season, scheduled from March 19 to March 30.
Photograph: Profimedia
