Alcaraz Is Back as if Nothing Happened, Winning Again to Reach the US Open Fourth Round

Carlos Alcaraz has returned to the US Open as though nothing happened. After four and a half months away from the circuit, the Spaniard defeated Yibing Wu 6-3, 6-4, 6-1 in two hours and 20 minutes to reach the tournament’s second week.

The scoreline suggested a comfortable victory, but the match tested Alcaraz during a difficult stretch. He had started cleanly, striking powerful forehands against a Chinese opponent who stayed deep and largely defended rather than attacked. Then his serve began to crack, his rhythm disappeared and Wu found openings.

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It bounces badly! It’s crazy!

Alcaraz grew frustrated with his level and shouted at himself during the more than 30-minute spell. He also complained to his box about the court, saying, “It bounces badly! It’s crazy!” Wu, ranked 113th and aged 26, sensed the tension and became more assertive, although Alcaraz eventually regained control.

The victory gave Alcaraz the basic ingredients he needed after his absence: rhythm, confidence and power. He acknowledged that Wu’s pace made the match difficult, saying, “I stayed in there. I played aggressively, I played intelligently and, in the most difficult moments, I knew how to respond.” Alcaraz will meet a familiar opponent next, American Tommy Paul, who defeated Alexander Bublik in five sets.

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I stayed in there. I played aggressively, I played intelligently and, in the most difficult moments, I knew how to respond.