Video - "I need a nap": Van de Zandschulp's improbable request in Saint Petersburg in 2021

Le 22/10/2025 à 20h55 par Jules Hypolite

Video - I need a nap: Van de Zandschulp's improbable request in Saint Petersburg in 2021

In the semifinals in Saint Petersburg four years ago, the Dutchman was exhausted. After a sleepless night, he attempted the unthinkable: asking the umpire for a "little nap" in the middle of the match.

In 2021, Botic van de Zandschulp had a great week in Saint Petersburg. The Dutchman, who came through qualifying, reached the semifinals of this ATP 500 by defeating Nishioka, Korda, and Rublev.

However, for a spot in the final against Marin Cilic, Van de Zandschulp lost 6-3, 6-3 and showed signs of fatigue. After a bad night's sleep, the current world No. 82 made an unprecedented request to the chair umpire.

VDZ: "Can I have a little extra time?"

Chair umpire: "What for?"

VDZ: "I need a little nap."

ATP doctor: "He didn't sleep at all last night."

Van de Zandschulp, Botic [Q]

3

Cilic, Marin

6

Saint-P

Tableau

Botic Van de Zandschulp

78e, 756 points

Marin Cilic

76e, 765 points

New Withdrawal in Athens: Khachanov Pulls Out of Greek Tournament

Adrien Guyot 31/10/2025 à 15h29

Following Stefanos Tsitsipas, another member of the world's top 30 has announced his withdrawal from next week's ATP 250 tournament in Athens. The carnage continues for the Athens tournament. While t...

Beating the World No. 1 at Bercy: A Feat Often Without Follow-Up

Clément Gehl 30/10/2025 à 12h11

Cameron Norrie had opened up the draw of the Rolex Paris Masters by defeating world number one Carlos Alcaraz. Unfortunately for him, he was unable to capitalize on this opportunity, losing in the ver...

Rolex Paris Masters: Royer Last French Player in the Running, Full Qualifying Schedule for Sunday

Jules Hypolite 25/10/2025 à 19h26

The qualifying rounds continue on Sunday at the Rolex Paris Masters, with only one French player remaining. Valentin Royer, winner of his match against Pierre-Hugues Herbert, will play for his spot i...

Rolex Paris Masters: Seven French Players in the Qualifying Draw, Schedule Revealed

Jules Hypolite 24/10/2025 à 23h02

For 28 players, the Rolex Paris Masters begins on Saturday with the qualifying rounds. Two rounds are scheduled on the three new side courts at Paris La Défense Arena. Seven French players are in the...