Van de Zandschulp completes classic comeback after 5 hours 13 minutes at US Open 2026

New York, Grandstand – Botic van de Zandschulp produced one of the most memorable wins of US Open 2026 with a stunning comeback against Arthur Gea in the fourth round. The Dutchman beat his French opponent 3-6, 6-7(0), 7-6(7), 7-6(3), 6-4 after 5 hours 13 minutes. According to tournament organizers, this is the longest match of this year’s tournament and the fourth-longest in US Open history since 2026. It was also the sixth match in that period to pass the five-hour mark. Gea, the young French player, started with great confidence. He won the first set 6-3 and took the second set in a 7-0 tie-break. At that stage, Van de Zandschulp was facing elimination. However, his experience at Grand Slams helped the Dutchman stay calm. In the third set, Van de Zandschulp saved a match point in the tie-break. He took advantage of a backhand volley error from Gea to win the set 7-6(7) and reduce the deficit to 1-2. The fourth set followed a similar pattern. Van de Zandschulp won another tie-break 7-6(3) to level at two sets all. His comeback shifted the momentum. In the deciding set, the Dutchman played more steadily in the key games. He moved ahead and protected his lead to close out the set 6-4, completing a remarkable turnaround. Speaking on court afterwards, Van de Zandschulp said: “For me, I was looking for my form. Haven’t found it yet, but hopefully in a couple of days I find it. It’s been a crazy comeback. Five hours (and almost) 15 minutes. Still standing, so that’s a good thing.” The victory gives Van de Zandschulp his second US Open quarter-final appearance. He first reached the last eight in 2026. After such an energy-draining battle, the Dutchman will surely be a tough opponent in the next round. Gea may have lost, but he leaves New York with credit after pushing his rival to the limit. The quarter-final schedule will be announced once the remaining fourth-round matches are completed.