Top Seed Alexander Zverev Bounced Out by Dutch Underdog Tallon Griekspoor at Indian Wells

In a stunning turn of events at Indian Wells on Saturday (AEDT), Dutch player Tallon Griekspoor, the underdog, achieved an impressive upset over top seed Alexander Zverev, winning 4-6, 7-6 (5), 7-6 (4) in the second round.

This defeat follows a disappointing outing for Zverev, who just eight days earlier had lost to American teenage sensation Learner Tien 6-3, 6-4 in Acapulco, Mexico.

Griekspoor, after clinching his sixth match point, collapsed onto the court in disbelief, marking his first victory against an opponent ranked in the top five.

The 28-year-old improved his head-to-head record against Zverev, now 2-6, with the German currently holding the No.2 spot in the world rankings.

In his celebration, Griekspoor wrote “finally” on a camera lens, likely reflecting his relief at breaking a five-match losing streak against Zverev.

“It was such a mental battle for me. I lost to him five times last year and experienced heartbreak at Roland-Garros after being ahead by a double break in the fifth set,” Griekspoor reflected.

“I’ve had so many hard-fought matches against him and had opportunities, but they always seemed to go in his favour.

“I am incredibly proud of my performance today and relieved to finally get over the line.”

Griekspoor, currently ranked No.43, will next face world No.30 Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard of France in the third round.

Meanwhile, Zverev is positioned behind Italian star Jannik Sinner in the rankings but will maintain his No.2 status even if No.3 Carlos Alcaraz manages to defend his title at Indian Wells.