Fifth seed Eubanks eliminated
Highly rated American Chris Eubanks has fallen at the first hurdle of the ASB Classic men’s tournament.
While the women’s event was devoid of early upsets, a boilover occurred yesterday, with fifth seed Eubanks eliminated in straight sets by Dutchman Botic van de Zandschulp.
Van de Zandschulp was good value for the 7-6 (5), 6-2 win against the world No 34, who rose more than 100 ranking places last year and made the Wimbledon quarter-finals.
Eubanks has one of the biggest serves on tour but was neutralised by van de Zandschulp’s smart returning game, while the European was strong when he stepped up to the line.
“He serves so well, you cannot lose focus any second of the match,” said van de Zandschulp. “Even if you have chances, you still have to make it because he is serving so well.
“It was his first match of the year, which is always tough, but if you beat a player like him — he is high ranked and playing amazing tennis — it gives you confidence.”
Eubanks looked rusty and seemed to be slightly affected by a back complaint but was forced into errors by van de Zandschulp’s persistence.
The 28-year-old has pedigree, best shown at the 2021 US Open, when he progressed from qualifying to the quarter-finals and was the only player to take a set off eventual champion Daniil Medvedev. It’s a good start to his first visit to the ASB Classic, after more than a decade on tour.
Japanese Taro Daniel, Chilean qualifier Alejandro Tabilo and German world No 56 Daniel Altmaier were among the other first-round winners, with popular American JJ Wolf bowing out.