Alcaraz breezes into last eight at US Open | Tennis News
Carlos Alcaraz advanced to the quarterfinals of the US Open after defeating American Tommy Paul 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 on Sunday, maintaining an impressive streak of not losing a single set throughout the tournament.
This victory marked a significant return for Alcaraz, who has not competed in nearly five months due to a right wrist injury. The win also extended his major match-winning streak to 18, showcasing his formidable shot-making abilities against a fellow power player.
“I think I just played my game,” Alcaraz said post-match. “I tried to play to my style. Tommy’s such a talented player, and his shots are pretty dangerous; it’s difficult to control the ball when it comes to you. I was ready for a battle.”
Alcaraz emphasized his aggressive approach during the match, noting, “I did well to put pressure on his return, which helped me stay calm and think clearly. I was really happy with the performance.”
The third game proved challenging for Alcaraz when Paul made an impressive 161km/h (100 mph) forehand winner that rallied the crowd at Arthur Ashe Stadium. However, Alcaraz steadied himself, capturing the first set with a late surge.
In the second set, the 23-year-old Spaniard showcased his skills with a crosscourt winner that earned him an early 2-0 lead. Despite exchanging breaks with Paul, Alcaraz maintained control, solidifying his advantage in the match.
Although the atmosphere favored the American player, the second seed lifted the excitement with his dynamic play, approaching a remarkable 13-0 record against American competitors in Grand Slams.
As the match neared its conclusion, Alcaraz faced a brief moment of uncertainty but ultimately regained composure to secure the victory, setting up a quarterfinal clash with either American Ben Shelton or Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas.
In reflecting on his performance, Alcaraz delivered a powerful forehand to clinch match point, a sign of his rising form at a tournament where he first triumphed four years ago.
“Yeah, I think so,” he said when asked if he felt he was back to his best in New York, where he has reached the quarterfinals in five of his six appearances. “It shows how special this place is to me; I’m just enjoying myself on court here. It doesn’t matter that I was out for over four months. Every time I come here, I play well.”
