Direct numerical simulations (DNSs) and experiments of a spatially developing zero-pressure-gradient turbulent boundary layer are presented up to Reynolds number Re-theta=2500, based on momentum thickness theta and free-stream velocity. For the first time direct comparisons of DNS and experiments of turbulent boundary layers at the same (computationally high and experimentally low) Re-theta are given, showing excellent agreement in skin friction, mean velocity, and turbulent fluctuations. These results allow for a substantial reduction of the uncertainty of boundary-layer data, and cross validate the numerical setup and experimental technique. The additional insight into the flow provided by DNS clearly shows large-scale turbulent structures, which scale in outer units growing with Re-theta, spanning the whole boundary-layer height.