Carlos Alcaraz Dominates in Madrid Open Debut
Two-time defending champion Carlos Alcaraz effortlessly secured victory in his opening match at the Madrid Open on Friday, despite concerns over a nagging arm injury. The third-ranked Spaniard brushed aside Alexander Shevchenko 6-2, 6-1 on the outdoor clay inside the Caja Magica, showcasing his trademark aggressive style.
On the women’s side, defending champion Aryna Sabalenka faced stiffer competition before ultimately defeating Magda Linette 6-3, 4-6, 6-3. The second-ranked Belarusian player experienced some serving difficulties but managed to hold her nerve and clinch the victory.
Alcaraz, who was sidelined from recent tournaments due to a right arm injury, was unsure about his fitness leading up to the Madrid event. However, the young tennis sensation surprised even himself with his strong performance, saying,
“I didn’t know how I would feel on the court, and I had my doubts. But today there was none of that. I surprised even myself and I am happy with how good I felt.”
The Spaniard, who is aiming to claim his first French Open title next month, appeared unhindered by the injury, breaking Shevchenko’s serve four times en route to a comfortable victory. Alcaraz, who had a first-round bye, will next face Thiago Seyboth Wild after the Brazilian defeated Lorenzo Musetti.
Other Notable Results
- Eighth-ranked Andrey Rublev ended his recent four-game losing streak by defeating Facundo Bagnis 6-1, 6-4.
- American Tommy Paul overcame qualifier Lukas Klein 6-7 (5), 6-1, 6-4 in his first clay-court match of the season.
- Top-ranked Iga Swiatek won her opening match on Thursday, while fourth-seeded Elena Rybakina continued her strong season with a 6-4, 6-3 victory over Lucia Bronzetti.
The Madrid Open promises to deliver more thrilling tennis as the clay-court season heats up.
🔗 Source