Two-time loser to Carlos Alcaraz, Dan Evans is gearing up for another clash
US Open 2023
Location: Flushing Meadows, New York
Timeline: August 28-September 10
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British contender Dan Evans plans to keep his cool by reminding himself that Carlos Alcaraz, the top-seeded Spaniard, is just an “ordinary human,” as they gear up for a US Open third-round showdown this Saturday.
At 33, Evans is set to challenge the reigning champion at the Arthur Ashe Stadium, 5:00 PM BST.
“Why should I step on the court thinking I don’t stand a chance against Alcaraz? He’s excellent, sure, but I have every right to beat him,” remarked Evans, the tournament’s 26th seed.
Also vying for third-round glory are Brits Katie Boulter, Cameron Norrie, and Jack Draper.
Boulter, who currently leads the British women’s circuit, will be facing the United States’ Peyton Stearns, ranked 59th worldwide.
Norrie, the top male player from Britain and 16th seed, squares off against US Open rookie Matteo Arnaldi from Italy. The victor will subsequently face either Evans or Alcaraz.
Draper, equally promising, aims for his first entry into a major’s last 16 when he goes up against American wildcard entrant Michael Mmoh at 4:00 PM.
‘Alcaraz is Human Just Like Me’
The odds might not favor Evans, but he’s not backing down. He plans to lean into the experience of his shock win over then-world No.1 Novak Djokovic in Monte Carlo a couple of years back.
“I don’t obsess over rankings. People are people,” emphasized the UK’s second-best male player. “We all put our pants on one leg at a time. The key is to remember they’re skilled but not invincible.”
Evans has fallen to the 20-year-old Alcaraz twice before—first on Vienna’s indoor hard courts two years ago, and then on Barcelona’s clay earlier this year. These losses ignited a seven-game losing spree in the ATP Tour, which Evans only broke by clinching his most significant career title last month in Washington.
After an inconsistent season marked by early exits and recent Grand Slam wins, Evans divulged that a bout of “soul-searching” catalyzed his turnaround.
“Friends had to give me a reality check. They said, ‘Stop whining and start doing,'” he disclosed. “That chat, followed by some good ol’ Chinese takeaway, set me back on track.”
Boulter, Norrie, and Draper: British Hopes High
The prospects for the other British participants look more favorable on paper.
Boulter, 27, is eyeing her maiden fourth-round spot at a major and is bracing for a tough match against Stearns, whom she narrowly lost to in Austin earlier this year.
“It’s going to be a physically demanding match, and I need to bring my A-game,” she said.
Meanwhile, Norrie, 28, seeks to replicate his last year’s run to the fourth round.
“The competition only intensifies from here. I’ve had an easy go in the initial rounds, but there’s plenty of room for improvement,” noted Norrie.
Draper’s participation was once in jeopardy due to a string of injuries that marred what he calls a “mentally draining” year.
“The game is funny like that. When you’re down and out, a good streak can change everything,” he added.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about US Open 2023 Dan Evans Carlos Alcaraz
Who is Dan Evans set to play in the third round of the US Open 2023?
Dan Evans is set to play against Carlos Alcaraz, the Spanish top seed, in the third round of the US Open 2023.
Where is the match between Dan Evans and Carlos Alcaraz taking place?
The match will take place at Arthur Ashe Stadium in Flushing Meadows, New York.
What time is the match scheduled for?
The match is scheduled to start at 5:00 PM BST.
Have Dan Evans and Carlos Alcaraz faced each other before?
Yes, they have faced each other twice before. Dan Evans lost both previous matches against Carlos Alcaraz.
What other British players are in the third-round action?
Katie Boulter, Cameron Norrie, and Jack Draper are also participating in third-round matches in this year’s US Open.
Who is Katie Boulter facing in her third-round match?
Katie Boulter is facing American player Peyton Stearns, who is ranked 59th worldwide.
What was the catalyst for Dan Evans’ turnaround in form?
Dan Evans broke a seven-match losing streak on the ATP Tour by winning a major title in Washington last month. He attributes his turnaround to some “home truths” told to him by friends.
What physical issues have put Jack Draper’s participation in doubt?
Jack Draper had a small muscle tear in his shoulder that ruled him out of Wimbledon. He also had a similar problem at the Winston-Salem Open, leading to concerns about his participation in the US Open.
How does Dan Evans approach matches against higher-ranked players?
Dan Evans focuses on the fact that all players, regardless of their rankings, are normal people who get nervous just like anyone else. He doesn’t let the ranking of his opponent affect his mindset.
Who will Cameron Norrie play in the third round?
Cameron Norrie is set to play against US Open debutant Matteo Arnaldi of Italy in the third round.
Is Dan Evans feeling the pressure, given his previous losses to Carlos Alcaraz?
While the odds might not favor Evans, he’s not backing down. He plans to rely on his past experience, including a shock win over then-world No.1 Novak Djokovic, to bolster his confidence.
More about US Open 2023 Dan Evans Carlos Alcaraz
- Dan Evans Official ATP Profile
- Carlos Alcaraz Rising Star Profile
- US Open 2023 Official Site
- Arthur Ashe Stadium: A Closer Look
- British Tennis: Current Rankings
- Katie Boulter’s Career Highlights
- Cameron Norrie’s Stellar Year
- Jack Draper: The Young Talent
- ATP Tour Latest Updates
- Flushing Meadows: History and Facts
- BBC Sport: Tennis Section
- Tennis News: Live Scores and Updates
- Winston-Salem Open: Tournament Review
- Monte Carlo Masters: Memorable Matches
- Peyton Stearns: An American Talent to Watch
- Matteo Arnaldi: The Italian Rookie
- Sports Psychology: Handling Pressure in Tennis
- British Players in Grand Slams: A Recent History
- Novak Djokovic’s Most Shocking Defeats
- Tennis Nutrition: What Fuels the Players
9 comments
Evans played golf with Alcaraz? Talk about keeping your friends close and your enemies closer. LOL.
Anyone else curious about the tech they use to measure serve speeds and player movements? I mean, that stuff must be next-gen.
Lets be real, guys. Alcaraz is a beast. Evans would need a miracle… but hey, who knows? Miracles happen.
Katie Boulter is the one to watch, mark my words. She’s Britain’s secret weapon. Also, her match against Stearns is gonna be fire!
Love how Evans just made it sound like facing the world’s top seed is like brushing your teeth in the morning. haha “they do exactly the same as what all of us do in the morning when they get out of bed.” Dude, they play tennis, not binge Netflix!
Back in my day, tennis was about skill, not psychology. Evans, just hit the ball, man!
Jack Draper, remember the name. Kid’s gonna be big if he can get past his injuries. Hope he shines this US Open.
Wow, Dan Evans has got some nerve, huh? Taking on Alcaraz like it’s just another day in the park. gotta respect the attitude man.
Evans vs. Alcaraz is like Batman vs. Superman, old guard vs. new blood. Don’t know who to root for. Super pumped tho!