Carlos Alcaraz has made a strong return to the court in the first round of the US Open. He has defeated Roman Safiullin 6-4, 6-4, 6-4, playing down all concerns regarding his fitness. This was the Spaniard’s first singles clash since April, but it didn’t look like he had been absent for four months with the way he played at Arthur Ashe Stadium. Alcaraz showed that his wrist is in much better condition now through a lightning-fast forehand that saw him gain an important break.
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The moment came when the set was level at 3-3, and Safiullin was serving at 30-40. Alcaraz made sure to convert the break point by unleashing a 107 mph forehand winner that was followed by a big roar from the crowd. Alcaraz was also pumped as he knew that he had gained the much-needed advantage in the opening set.
Alcaraz soon went on to serve out the first set. A similar pattern would follow in the second and third sets as the World No. 3 kept on getting the all-important breaks while keeping a hold on his serve. Alcaraz only lost his serve once during the match and fended off five of the six break points he faced. On the other hand, he clinched four breaks during the match as Safiullin clearly wasn’t at his best.
This is a developing story…