Carlos Alcaraz defeated 269th-ranked qualifier Mark Lajal at the start of his Wimbledon title defence on Monday as Andy Murray decided whether or not to call a halt to his All England Club singles career.

As action got under way, Australian Open champion Aryna Sabalenka was heading home after withdrawing from the tournament with a shoulder injury.

Alcaraz, still only 21, is chasing his fourth Grand Slam title and hopes to become just the sixth man after Rod Laver, Bjorn Borg, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic to win the French Open and Wimbledon back-to-back.

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Opening the Centre Court programme, the Spanish star recovered from a break down in each of the first two sets to see off the dreadlocked Lajal 7-6 (7/3), 7-5, 6-2.

"He played a really good match, he obviously surprised me a little bit because I didn't have the chance to see him play a lot," said Alcaraz.

This time last year, Lajal was losing a first-round match at a second-tier Challenger event in the United States and earning a paltry $780 -- on Monday he banked $75,000.

Two-time Wimbledon semi-finalist Sabalenka, ranked third in the world, is one of eight players to have pulled out since the draw was made.

She had admitted she was not 100 per cent fit after suffering a shoulder injury at the Berlin Open and has been replaced by Russian lucky loser Erika Andreeva.

"Heartbroken to have to tell you all that I won't be able to play The Championships this year," wrote 26-year-old Sabalenka on X.

Russian fifth seed Daniil Medvedev reached the second round and admitted he was happy not to be playing on the All England Club's famed Centre Court.

Medvedev, a semi-finalist last year, hit 16 aces in his 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 win over Aleksandar Kovacevic of the United States.

"I've still never lost on Court One so hopefully I can play a lot more matches on this court," said Medvedev.

"Last year I said it was unfortunate I had to go to Centre Court for the semis and I lost."

Eighth seed Casper Ruud, who has never been past the second round, saw off Alex Bolt of Australia in straight sets and revealed he had been laid low by a parasite since reaching the French Open semi-finals.

"I was mostly in bed for 10, 11 days, which was not what I was kind of hoping for," said the Norwegian.

Three-time Grand Slam title winner Stan Wawrinka won his Wimbledon opener at the age of 39, beating British wild card Charles Broom 6-3, 7-5, 6-4.

"I think there is enough reason to keep playing. I don't want to go home," said Wawrinka, who made his debut at Wimbledon in 2005.

World number one Jannik Sinner, a semi-finalist in 2023, starts against Yannick Hanfmann,&nbsp;the German world number 110.

The 22-year-old Sinner won a maiden Slam at the Australian Open and then deposed Djokovic as world number one, becoming the first Italian man to reach such heights.

Sinner arrives in London having captured his first grass-court title in Halle.

<h2>- 'Feel that buzz' -</h2>

Murray, champion in 2013 and 2016, will reveal later Monday if he will play singles at his farewell Wimbledon.

The former world number one underwent surgery to remove a cyst on his spine last week and admitted he still has not fully recovered feeling in his leg.

Murray, whose 2013 triumph ended Britain's 77-year wait for a men's champion at Wimbledon, is due to face Czech world number 39 Tomas Machac on Tuesday.

If he cannot make that date, he still hopes to play doubles with brother Jamie before bringing the curtain down on his Wimbledon career, which began 19 years ago.

"I'm hoping maybe for a bit of closure. I just want the opportunity to play one more time out there hopefully on Centre Court and feel that buzz," said 37-year-old Murray.

Elsewhere on opening day, women's second seed and US Open champion Coco Gauff takes on American compatriot Caroline Dolehide.&nbsp;

<h2>- 'Need luck' -</h2>

Four-time major winner Naomi Osaka tackles Diane Parry of France in her first appearance at Wimbledon since 2019.

Osaka, who only returned to the tour at the start of the season after maternity leave, is ranked at 113 and required a wild card to play at Wimbledon.

At the recent French Open, she gave world number one Iga Swiatek a mighty scare, holding a match point in their second-round clash before the Pole prevailed.

Carlos Alcaraz defeated 269th-ranked qualifier Mark Lajal at the start of his Wimbledon title defence on Monday as Andy Murray decided whether or not to call a halt to his All England Club singles career.

Carlos Alcaraz defeated 269th-ranked qualifier Mark Lajal at the start of his Wimbledon title defence on Monday as Andy Murray decided whether or not to call a halt to his All England Club singles career. As action got under way, Australian Open champion Aryna Sabalenka was heading home after withdrawing from the tournament with a shoulder injury. Alcaraz, still only 21, is chasing his fourth Grand Slam title and hopes to become just the sixth man after Rod Laver, Bjorn Borg, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic to win the French Open and Wimbledon back-to-back. Also Read: Austrian GP: Lando Norris says he will lose respect for Max Verstappen without apology Opening the Centre Court programme, the Spanish star recovered from a break down in each of the first two sets to see off the dreadlocked Lajal 7-6 (7/3), 7-5, 6-2. "He played a really good match, he obviously surprised me a little bit because I didn't have the chance to see him play a lot," said Alcaraz. This time last year, Lajal was losing a first-round match at a second-tier Challenger event in the United States and earning a paltry $780 -- on Monday he banked $75,000. Two-time Wimbledon semi-finalist Sabalenka, ranked third in the world, is one of eight players to have pulled out since the draw was made. She had admitted she was not 100 per cent fit after suffering a shoulder injury at the Berlin Open and has been replaced by Russian lucky loser Erika Andreeva. "Heartbroken to have to tell you all that I won't be able to play The Championships this year," wrote 26-year-old Sabalenka on X. Russian fifth seed Daniil Medvedev reached the second round and admitted he was happy not to be playing on the All England Club's famed Centre Court. Medvedev, a semi-finalist last year, hit 16 aces in his 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 win over Aleksandar Kovacevic of the United States. "I've still never lost on Court One so hopefully I can play a lot more matches on this court," said Medvedev. "Last year I said it was unfortunate I had to go to Centre Court for the semis and I lost." Eighth seed Casper Ruud, who has never been past the second round, saw off Alex Bolt of Australia in straight sets and revealed he had been laid low by a parasite since reaching the French Open semi-finals. "I was mostly in bed for 10, 11 days, which was not what I was kind of hoping for," said the Norwegian. Three-time Grand Slam title winner Stan Wawrinka won his Wimbledon opener at the age of 39, beating British wild card Charles Broom 6-3, 7-5, 6-4. "I think there is enough reason to keep playing. I don't want to go home," said Wawrinka, who made his debut at Wimbledon in 2005. World number one Jannik Sinner, a semi-finalist in 2023, starts against Yannick Hanfmann, the German world number 110. The 22-year-old Sinner won a maiden Slam at the Australian Open and then deposed Djokovic as world number one, becoming the first Italian man to reach such heights. Sinner arrives in London having captured his first grass-court title in Halle. - 'Feel that buzz' - Murray, champion in 2013 and 2016, will reveal later Monday if he will play singles at his farewell Wimbledon. The former world number one underwent surgery to remove a cyst on his spine last week and admitted he still has not fully recovered feeling in his leg. Murray, whose 2013 triumph ended Britain's 77-year wait for a men's champion at Wimbledon, is due to face Czech world number 39 Tomas Machac on Tuesday. If he cannot make that date, he still hopes to play doubles with brother Jamie before bringing the curtain down on his Wimbledon career, which began 19 years ago. "I'm hoping maybe for a bit of closure. I just want the opportunity to play one more time out there hopefully on Centre Court and feel that buzz," said 37-year-old Murray. Elsewhere on opening day, women's second seed and US Open champion Coco Gauff takes on American compatriot Caroline Dolehide. - 'Need luck' - Four-time major winner Naomi Osaka tackles Diane Parry of France in her first appearance at Wimbledon since 2019. Osaka, who only returned to the tour at the start of the season after maternity leave, is ranked at 113 and required a wild card to play at Wimbledon. At the recent French Open, she gave world number one Iga Swiatek a mighty scare, holding a match point in their second-round clash before the Pole prevailed.

Wimbledon 2024: Carlos Alcaraz begins title defence with win; Aryna Sabalenka withdraws with injury

World number two Carlos Alcaraz said he would speak to the ATP about a "new" shot clock rule being trialled at Queen's Club Championships this week after feeling rushed during his defeat by Briton Jack Draper. Alcaraz's preparations for his Wimbledon title defence suffered a setback on Thursday with his 7-6(3) 6-3 loss to Draper in the last 16.

The 25-seconds shot clock, aimed at reducing the time taken between points, was previously started only when the chair umpire called the score but media reports said a rule tweak sees the countdown to a serve begin almost immediately after a point is concluded.

The reports said the new regulation was on trial for the last 10 days and players had been informed about it.

Alcaraz said he had no time to go through his regular routine during the match and that he had expressed his concerns to chair umpire Mohamed Lahyani.

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"He told me that there is a new rule, this new thing, that the clock never stops. After the point is finished, the clock is putting on," he added. "I think for the players it's something bad. I finish the point at the net and I had no time to ask for balls. I'm not saying to go to a towel and take my time. I feel like I can't ask for the balls.

"It's crazy. I have time just to ask for two balls and no bounces. I've never seen something like that in tennis.

"If you play a long point or finish at the net, you have time just to go for a towel or ask for your routine, ask for, in my case, four balls, I'm concentrating on the next point, just bouncing my bounces and serve as best as I can.

"Today I felt like I was in a rush all the time. I had no time to bounce and do my routine."

Reuters has contacted the ATP for comment.

The French Open champion was asked if he had spoken to the governing body.

"Not yet, but I will, for sure," said Alcaraz, who will now head to Wimbledon, which begins on July 1.

World number two Carlos Alcaraz said he would speak to the ATP about a "new" shot clock rule being trialled at Queen's Club Championships this week after feeling rushed during his defeat by Briton Jack Draper.

World number two Carlos Alcaraz said he would speak to the ATP about a "new" shot clock rule being trialled at Queen's Club Championships this week after feeling rushed during his defeat by Briton Jack Draper. Alcaraz's preparations for his Wimbledon title defence suffered a setback on Thursday with his 7-6(3) 6-3 loss to Draper in the last 16. The 25-seconds shot clock, aimed at reducing the time taken between points, was previously started only when the chair umpire called the score but media reports said a rule tweak sees the countdown to a serve begin almost immediately after a point is concluded. The reports said the new regulation was on trial for the last 10 days and players had been informed about it. Alcaraz said he had no time to go through his regular routine during the match and that he had expressed his concerns to chair umpire Mohamed Lahyani. ALSO READ: Lionel Messi-starrer Argentina begin Copa title defence with 2-0 win over Canada "He told me that there is a new rule, this new thing, that the clock never stops. After the point is finished, the clock is putting on," he added. "I think for the players it's something bad. I finish the point at the net and I had no time to ask for balls. I'm not saying to go to a towel and take my time. I feel like I can't ask for the balls. "It's crazy. I have time just to ask for two balls and no bounces. I've never seen something like that in tennis. "If you play a long point or finish at the net, you have time just to go for a towel or ask for your routine, ask for, in my case, four balls, I'm concentrating on the next point, just bouncing my bounces and serve as best as I can. "Today I felt like I was in a rush all the time. I had no time to bounce and do my routine." Reuters has contacted the ATP for comment. The French Open champion was asked if he had spoken to the governing body. "Not yet, but I will, for sure," said Alcaraz, who will now head to Wimbledon, which begins on July 1.

Carlos Alcaraz plans to speak with ATP over 'new shot clock rule' following defeat at Queen's

Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz suffered a shock defeat to Britain's Jack Draper in the last 16 of the Queen's Club tournament in London on Thursday.

Spaniard Alcaraz, also the reigning Queen's champion, fell 7-6 (7/3), 6-3 with the British number one claiming the biggest win of his career.

World number two Alcaraz arrived for this grass-court warm-up event for Wimbledon fresh from his French Open triumph on the clay of Roland Garros.

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But the 21-year-old was undone by Draper, 22, who is bidding to become the first British men's singles champion at Queen's since Andy Murray won his fifth title at the event in 2016.

"It was a really tough match I knew coming out here that Carlos is the defending champion, he won Wimbledon, he's an amazing talent," said 31st-ranked Draper, who won his first ATP title in Stuttgart last week.&nbsp;

"I knew I had to come out here and play really well, and luckily I did that."

Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz suffered a shock defeat to Britain's Jack Draper in the last 16 of the Queen's Club tournament in London on Thursday. Spaniard Alcaraz, also the reigning Queen's champion, fell 7-6 (7/3), 6-3 with the British number one claiming the biggest win of his career.

Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz suffered a shock defeat to Britain's Jack Draper in the last 16 of the Queen's Club tournament in London on Thursday. Spaniard Alcaraz, also the reigning Queen's champion, fell 7-6 (7/3), 6-3 with the British number one claiming the biggest win of his career. World number two Alcaraz arrived for this grass-court warm-up event for Wimbledon fresh from his French Open triumph on the clay of Roland Garros. ALSO READ | T20 WC: 4,6,4,6,6,4! Phil Salt's ONSLAUGHT off Romario Shepherd goes viral during WI vs ENG tie - Watch But the 21-year-old was undone by Draper, 22, who is bidding to become the first British men's singles champion at Queen's since Andy Murray won his fifth title at the event in 2016. "It was a really tough match I knew coming out here that Carlos is the defending champion, he won Wimbledon, he's an amazing talent," said 31st-ranked Draper, who won his first ATP title in Stuttgart last week. "I knew I had to come out here and play really well, and luckily I did that."

Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz knocked out of Queen's Club in last 16

World number two Carlos Alcaraz said he is looking forward to learning from the 22-times Grand Slam champion Rafa Nadal when they pair up in the doubles at the Paris Olympics. Three-times Grand Slam champion Alcaraz, 21, will return to Roland Garros for the singles and doubles at the Games after being crowned French Open champion there earlier this month.

Nadal won Olympic singles gold in 2008 and a doubles gold in 2016. The 38-year-old will be playing at the Games for a third time.

"I didn’t expect to play doubles at the Olympic Games with Rafa," Alcaraz told reporters on Monday. "It is a unique moment for me but of course I am very happy about it. Let’s see how it’s going to be but it’s going to be a great time. "Honestly, I feel he is going to teach me how to deal with everything. I am the young guy who needs to grow up as a player, to grow up as a person as well.

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"Of course it’s going to be my first Olympic Games. Everything is new for me, so I hope to learn a lot from him."

Nadal is skipping Wimbledon in July in order to prepare for the Olympics while Alcaraz returns to action at the Queen's Club Championships in London later on Tuesday before starting his title defence at Wimbledon next month. The Olympic&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;tournament runs from July 27 to Aug. 4.

World number two Carlos Alcaraz said he is looking forward to learning from the 22-times Grand Slam champion Rafa Nadal when they pair up in the doubles at the Paris Olympics.

World number two Carlos Alcaraz said he is looking forward to learning from the 22-times Grand Slam champion Rafa Nadal when they pair up in the doubles at the Paris Olympics. Three-times Grand Slam champion Alcaraz, 21, will return to Roland Garros for the singles and doubles at the Games after being crowned French Open champion there earlier this month. Nadal won Olympic singles gold in 2008 and a doubles gold in 2016. The 38-year-old will be playing at the Games for a third time. "I didn’t expect to play doubles at the Olympic Games with Rafa," Alcaraz told reporters on Monday. "It is a unique moment for me but of course I am very happy about it. Let’s see how it’s going to be but it’s going to be a great time. "Honestly, I feel he is going to teach me how to deal with everything. I am the young guy who needs to grow up as a player, to grow up as a person as well. Also read: Tennis: India’s Sumit Nagal attains career-best ATP Ranking despite Perugia final loss "Of course it’s going to be my first Olympic Games. Everything is new for me, so I hope to learn a lot from him." Nadal is skipping Wimbledon in July in order to prepare for the Olympics while Alcaraz returns to action at the Queen's Club Championships in London later on Tuesday before starting his title defence at Wimbledon next month. The Olympic tennis tournament runs from July 27 to Aug. 4.

Olympics: Carlos Alcaraz hoping to learn from Rafael Nadal at Paris Games

Carlos Alcaraz saved three set points on his way to beating Francisco Cerundolo 6-1, 7-5 as he launched his title defence at Queen's Club on Tuesday (Jun 18) following the exit of second seed Alex de Minaur.

Spain's Alcaraz, who lifted his third Grand Slam at the French Open earlier this month, was not at his best in his first grass-court match of 2024 but recovered from a mid-match dip to triumph.

The top seed committed just one unforced error in the first set to take a grip on the contest but his level dipped at the start of the second set and he trailed 2-5.

From there he battled back impressively, saving three set points on serve at 4-5 before sealing victory to extend his winning streak on grass to 13 matches.

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Champion instincts 🧠 
 
Back in London <a href="https://twitter.com/carlosalcaraz?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@carlosalcaraz</a> saves three set points to edge Cerundolo 6-1, 7-5<a href="https://twitter.com/QueensTennis?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@QueensTennis</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/cinchChampionships?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#cinchChampionships</a> <a href="https://t.co/JBNsTRTW86">pic.twitter.com/JBNsTRTW86</a>
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The world number two, who followed up last year's victory at Queen's by winning his first Wimbledon, will next face Stuttgart champion&nbsp;&nbsp;Jack Draper&nbsp;or Argentine&nbsp;Mariano Navone.

Earlier, Lorenzo Musetti&nbsp;upset Australia's De Minaur, ranked seventh in the world,&nbsp;1-6, 6-4, 6-2.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-olympics-carlos-alcaraz-hoping-to-learn-from-rafael-nadal-at-paris-games-732721">Also read |&nbsp;Olympics: Carlos Alcaraz hoping to learn from Rafael Nadal at Paris Games</a>

De Minaur, 25, came to the tournament fresh from winning the 's-Hertogenbosch grass-court event in the Netherlands at the weekend.

There were also wins for former Wimbledon quarter-finalist Taylor Fritz and fellow Americans Tommy Paul and Sebastian Korda.

Italian Matteo Arnaldi&nbsp;eliminated eighth seed Ugo Humbert.

Britain's Andy Murray, a five-time champion at Queen's, is also in action on the second day of the event.

Carlos Alcaraz saved three set points on his way to beating Francisco Cerundolo 6-1, 7-5 as he launched his title defence at Queen's Club on Tuesday (Jun 18) following the exit of second seed Alex de Minaur.

Carlos Alcaraz saved three set points on his way to beating Francisco Cerundolo 6-1, 7-5 as he launched his title defence at Queen's Club on Tuesday (Jun 18) following the exit of second seed Alex de Minaur. Spain's Alcaraz, who lifted his third Grand Slam at the French Open earlier this month, was not at his best in his first grass-court match of 2024 but recovered from a mid-match dip to triumph. The top seed committed just one unforced error in the first set to take a grip on the contest but his level dipped at the start of the second set and he trailed 2-5. From there he battled back impressively, saving three set points on serve at 4-5 before sealing victory to extend his winning streak on grass to 13 matches. Champion instincts 🧠 Back in London @carlosalcaraz saves three set points to edge Cerundolo 6-1, 7-5@QueensTennis | #cinchChampionships pic.twitter.com/JBNsTRTW86 — ATP Tour (@atptour) June 18, 2024 × The world number two, who followed up last year's victory at Queen's by winning his first Wimbledon, will next face Stuttgart champion Jack Draper or Argentine Mariano Navone. Earlier, Lorenzo Musetti upset Australia's De Minaur, ranked seventh in the world, 1-6, 6-4, 6-2. Also read | Olympics: Carlos Alcaraz hoping to learn from Rafael Nadal at Paris Games De Minaur, 25, came to the tournament fresh from winning the 's-Hertogenbosch grass-court event in the Netherlands at the weekend. There were also wins for former Wimbledon quarter-finalist Taylor Fritz and fellow Americans Tommy Paul and Sebastian Korda. Italian Matteo Arnaldi eliminated eighth seed Ugo Humbert. Britain's Andy Murray, a five-time champion at Queen's, is also in action on the second day of the event.

Carlos Alcaraz advances to second round at Queen's Club after slow start

Spain's Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz will team up to play doubles at this year's Olympic Games in Paris, the Royal Spanish Tennis Federation (RFET) said on Wednesday (Jun 12).

Nadal won an Olympic gold medal in 2008, but the Paris Games will be Alcaraz's first as he returns to Roland Garros where he was crowned&nbsp;French Open champion&nbsp;on Sunday.

Nadal's participation was up in the air with the 14-times French Open champion still not at his best following injuries but national team coach David Ferrer said the 38-year-old would team up with 21-year-old Alcaraz.

"One pair, which I think everyone knows and was hoping for is Carlos Alcaraz and Rafael Nadal and the second pair is yet to be decided, it hasn't been 100 per cent confirmed yet," Ferrer told reporters.

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"We'll wait a bit before announcing that. But Rafa and Carlos will be playing together in Paris," said&nbsp;Ferrer.

The other players selected are Pablo Carreno Busta and Alejandro Davidovich Fokina while Marcel Granollers, who is ranked world number two in doubles, is also in the squad.

The Paris Olympics run from July 26-Aug 11.

Spain's Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz will team up to play doubles at this year's Olympic Games in Paris, the Royal Spanish Tennis Federation (RFET) said on Wednesday (Jun 12).

Spain's Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz will team up to play doubles at this year's Olympic Games in Paris, the Royal Spanish Tennis Federation (RFET) said on Wednesday (Jun 12). Nadal won an Olympic gold medal in 2008, but the Paris Games will be Alcaraz's first as he returns to Roland Garros where he was crowned French Open champion on Sunday. Nadal's participation was up in the air with the 14-times French Open champion still not at his best following injuries but national team coach David Ferrer said the 38-year-old would team up with 21-year-old Alcaraz. "One pair, which I think everyone knows and was hoping for is Carlos Alcaraz and Rafael Nadal and the second pair is yet to be decided, it hasn't been 100 per cent confirmed yet," Ferrer told reporters. Also read | Rafael Nadal bows out of French Open in potential ‘last dance’ as Zverev outclasses the Spaniard "We'll wait a bit before announcing that. But Rafa and Carlos will be playing together in Paris," said Ferrer. The other players selected are Pablo Carreno Busta and Alejandro Davidovich Fokina while Marcel Granollers, who is ranked world number two in doubles, is also in the squad. The Paris Olympics run from July 26-Aug 11.

Dream team! Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz to pair up in doubles at Paris Olympics

Carlos Alcaraz said his maiden French Open triumph on Sunday was the proudest moment of his glittering career, after the Spaniard became the youngest man to win Grand Slams on all three of the sport's surfaces following his Wimbledon and U.S. Open titles.

The 21-year-old beat German Alexander Zverev 6-3 2-6 5-7 6-1 6-2 at Roland Garros to join an elite club that includes greats Mats Wilander, Jimmy Connors, Andre Agassi, Roger Federer, Rafa Nadal and Novak Djokovic.

But having arrived in Paris with barely any matches under his belt due to a right forearm injury, Alcaraz said his latest achievement was all the more special.

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"Obviously winning the U.S. Open (in 2022) when I reached for the first time the number one, something that I dreamt about since I started playing tennis, getting my first Grand Slam. So it was pretty special," Alcaraz said.

"The way I won Wimbledon (in 2023), beating Djokovic in five sets has been a great achievement for me. Right now, lifting the Roland Garros trophy, knowing everything I've been through the last month with the injuries and all, I don't know.

"Probably this is the moment I'm really proud about, because of everything I've done the last month just to be ready for this tournament with my team, a lot of talks with them. If I have to practise, if I can't practise or discuss with them.

"It has been really difficult for me, honestly."

Alcaraz had withdrawn from Monte Carlo and the Barcelona Open due to the injury and although he attempted to retain his title in Madrid, going out in the quarter-finals, he also skipped the Italian Open.

"I consider myself a player who doesn't need too many matches just to get to 100%. I had a really good week here in Paris, practising with good players," Alcaraz said. "I felt really well playing sets, moving, hitting my shots before the tournament began. Obviously, every match that I have played, I was getting better and better."

Alcaraz said he would mark his latest triumph by getting a tattoo of the Eiffel Tower with Sunday's date, having gotten inked after his previous major successes.

"I have to find the time. But I'll do it for sure. It's going to be on the left ankle," Alcaraz said. "Wimbledon was the right one. Here it's going to be the left one, I think with the Eiffel Tower, with the date."

Carlos Alcaraz said his maiden French Open triumph on Sunday was the proudest moment of his glittering career, after the Spaniard became the youngest man to win Grand Slams on all three of the sport's surfaces following his Wimbledon and U.

Carlos Alcaraz said his maiden French Open triumph on Sunday was the proudest moment of his glittering career, after the Spaniard became the youngest man to win Grand Slams on all three of the sport's surfaces following his Wimbledon and U.S. Open titles. The 21-year-old beat German Alexander Zverev 6-3 2-6 5-7 6-1 6-2 at Roland Garros to join an elite club that includes greats Mats Wilander, Jimmy Connors, Andre Agassi, Roger Federer, Rafa Nadal and Novak Djokovic. But having arrived in Paris with barely any matches under his belt due to a right forearm injury, Alcaraz said his latest achievement was all the more special. ALSO READ: French Open Final: Spain's Carlos Alcaraz outmuscles Alexander Zverev to clinch maiden title in Paris "Obviously winning the U.S. Open (in 2022) when I reached for the first time the number one, something that I dreamt about since I started playing tennis, getting my first Grand Slam. So it was pretty special," Alcaraz said. "The way I won Wimbledon (in 2023), beating Djokovic in five sets has been a great achievement for me. Right now, lifting the Roland Garros trophy, knowing everything I've been through the last month with the injuries and all, I don't know. "Probably this is the moment I'm really proud about, because of everything I've done the last month just to be ready for this tournament with my team, a lot of talks with them. If I have to practise, if I can't practise or discuss with them. "It has been really difficult for me, honestly." Alcaraz had withdrawn from Monte Carlo and the Barcelona Open due to the injury and although he attempted to retain his title in Madrid, going out in the quarter-finals, he also skipped the Italian Open. "I consider myself a player who doesn't need too many matches just to get to 100%. I had a really good week here in Paris, practising with good players," Alcaraz said. "I felt really well playing sets, moving, hitting my shots before the tournament began. Obviously, every match that I have played, I was getting better and better." Alcaraz said he would mark his latest triumph by getting a tattoo of the Eiffel Tower with Sunday's date, having gotten inked after his previous major successes. "I have to find the time. But I'll do it for sure. It's going to be on the left ankle," Alcaraz said. "Wimbledon was the right one. Here it's going to be the left one, I think with the Eiffel Tower, with the date."

Carlos Alcaraz plans Eiffel Tower tattoo following historic triumph at Roland Garros

Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz outmuscled Olympic champion Alexander Zverev in a marathon five-set contest on Sunday (June 9) to clinch his maiden French Open men’s singles title. Alcaraz, who became the fifth player in last two decades to win the French Open has continued Spanish dominance in Paris adding to Rafael Nadal’s 14 titles. He defeat Zverev 6-2, 2-6, 5-7, 6-1, 6-2 to win his third Grand Slam. He has won Wimbledon in 2023&nbsp;and the US Open in 2022.

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<h2>Alcaraz wins French Open title</h2>

Having got the better of Jannik Sinner in the semifinal, Alcaraz was the favourite to win the French Open title against Zverev. The 21-year-old’s experience in the Grand Slam final came in handy as he won the contest which lasted almost five hours at the Court Philippe-Chatrier. The Spaniard started the match on the front foot having won the opening set 6-2. However, he suffered significant setbacks in the consequent sets and dropped the second and third. Interestingly, Alcaraz dropped the third set despite serving for the set at one point.

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The setbacks did not let Alcaraz lose his confidence as he stormed to win the fourth set 6-1 while taking a 3-0 lead at the start of it. His dominance continued in the fifth set where he broke the German’s serve twice including while he was just two games away from winning the championship.

<h2>Alcaraz cements his legacy</h2>

After winning the French Open, the Spaniard took a giant step towards a career Grand Slam as he now needs to win the Australian Open. At 21 he has a great chance of winning all four Grand Slam titles while one eye will also be on the Paris Olympics which takes place in another month and a half. His win also sees him join the likes of Rafael Nadal, Juan Carlos Ferrero and Carlos Moya in other notable winners in Paris.&nbsp;

For Alexander Zverev, the wait for his first Grand Slam title continues adding to his disappointment. He also lost the 2020 US Open final to Novak Djokovic, in his only other Grand Slam final appearance before this.

Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz outmuscled Olympic champion Alexander Zverev in a marathon five-set contest on Sunday (June 9) to clinch his maiden French Open men’s singles title.

Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz outmuscled Olympic champion Alexander Zverev in a marathon five-set contest on Sunday (June 9) to clinch his maiden French Open men’s singles title. Alcaraz, who became the fifth player in last two decades to win the French Open has continued Spanish dominance in Paris adding to Rafael Nadal’s 14 titles. He defeat Zverev 6-2, 2-6, 5-7, 6-1, 6-2 to win his third Grand Slam. He has won Wimbledon in 2023 and the US Open in 2022. CARLOS I, PRINCE OF CLAY 👑#RolandGarros pic.twitter.com/lZWMplAmYK — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) June 9, 2024 × Alcaraz wins French Open title Having got the better of Jannik Sinner in the semifinal, Alcaraz was the favourite to win the French Open title against Zverev. The 21-year-old’s experience in the Grand Slam final came in handy as he won the contest which lasted almost five hours at the Court Philippe-Chatrier. The Spaniard started the match on the front foot having won the opening set 6-2. However, he suffered significant setbacks in the consequent sets and dropped the second and third. Interestingly, Alcaraz dropped the third set despite serving for the set at one point. ALSO READ | Champions Trophy 2025 likely to take place from Feb 9 in Pakistan; suspense remains on India's travel plans The setbacks did not let Alcaraz lose his confidence as he stormed to win the fourth set 6-1 while taking a 3-0 lead at the start of it. His dominance continued in the fifth set where he broke the German’s serve twice including while he was just two games away from winning the championship. Alcaraz cements his legacy After winning the French Open, the Spaniard took a giant step towards a career Grand Slam as he now needs to win the Australian Open. At 21 he has a great chance of winning all four Grand Slam titles while one eye will also be on the Paris Olympics which takes place in another month and a half. His win also sees him join the likes of Rafael Nadal, Juan Carlos Ferrero and Carlos Moya in other notable winners in Paris. For Alexander Zverev, the wait for his first Grand Slam title continues adding to his disappointment. He also lost the 2020 US Open final to Novak Djokovic, in his only other Grand Slam final appearance before this.

French Open Final: Spain's Carlos Alcaraz outmuscles Alexander Zverev to clinch maiden title in Paris

Carlos Alcaraz will face a major test of nerves when he takes on Alexander Zverev in a potentially high-octane French Open men's singles final as both players look to claim a maiden Roland Garros title on Sunday.

Alcaraz, who already has two Grand Slam titles to his name, has been seen as fellow Spaniard Rafael Nadal's successor on the Paris clay. But in last year's semi-final, tension and nerves got the better of him and he cracked against Novak Djokovic.

In Friday's last-four encounter against Jannik Sinner, he owed his long comeback from a woeful, tense start to the Italian's inconsistency.

As long as he is mentally prepared for the challenge, however, Alcaraz, the youngest player to reach a Grand Slam final on all three surfaces - hard, clay and grass - will be the favourite to lift the Musketeers Cup and add his name to the list of Spanish players crowned at Roland Garros.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-french-open-final-iga-swiatek-outclasses-jasmine-paolini-in-straight-sets-to-win-third-consecutive-title-729963">French Open Final: Iga Swiatek outclasses Jasmine Paolini in straight sets to win third consecutive title</a>

"I remember when I finish school I'm running to my home just to put the TV on and watch the matches here in the French Open," the 21-year-old said.

"I watched a lot of matches. Of course Rafa Nadal. I wanted to put my name on that list of the Spanish players who won this tournament. Not only Rafa. (Juan Carlos) Ferrero, (Carlos) Moya, (Albert) Costa, a lot of Spanish players, legends from our sport who won this tournament, I really want to put my name on that list, as well."

Fourth seed Zverev, meanwhile, will be looking to settle a score with the tournament itself, having been eliminated in the semi-finals here in the three previous editions while still chasing his maiden Grand Slam title.

He has reached the final at a major once previously, at the 2020 U.S. Open.

"Going from the U.S. Open final where I was two points away (from victory) to being rolled off in a wheelchair here two years ago", after suffering an ankle injury against Nadal, "it's all part of my journey" said the 27-year-old, who won the Rome Masters ahead of the French Open.

Zverev, who has been tested in marathon matches here this year, has however been playing some of his best tennis, and his ability to prevent Alcaraz from revving up his devastating forehand will be a key of the contest on court Philippe Chatrier.

Alcaraz has won five of their nine meetings so far, and leads 2-1 on clay. Their last encounter on tennis' slowest surface was a one-sided affair, with the Spaniard prevailing 6-1 6-2 in Madrid last year.

Carlos Alcaraz will face a major test of nerves when he takes on Alexander Zverev in a potentially high-octane French Open men's singles final as both players look to claim a maiden Roland Garros title on Sunday.

Carlos Alcaraz will face a major test of nerves when he takes on Alexander Zverev in a potentially high-octane French Open men's singles final as both players look to claim a maiden Roland Garros title on Sunday. Alcaraz, who already has two Grand Slam titles to his name, has been seen as fellow Spaniard Rafael Nadal's successor on the Paris clay. But in last year's semi-final, tension and nerves got the better of him and he cracked against Novak Djokovic. In Friday's last-four encounter against Jannik Sinner, he owed his long comeback from a woeful, tense start to the Italian's inconsistency. As long as he is mentally prepared for the challenge, however, Alcaraz, the youngest player to reach a Grand Slam final on all three surfaces - hard, clay and grass - will be the favourite to lift the Musketeers Cup and add his name to the list of Spanish players crowned at Roland Garros. ALSO READ: French Open Final: Iga Swiatek outclasses Jasmine Paolini in straight sets to win third consecutive title "I remember when I finish school I'm running to my home just to put the TV on and watch the matches here in the French Open," the 21-year-old said. "I watched a lot of matches. Of course Rafa Nadal. I wanted to put my name on that list of the Spanish players who won this tournament. Not only Rafa. (Juan Carlos) Ferrero, (Carlos) Moya, (Albert) Costa, a lot of Spanish players, legends from our sport who won this tournament, I really want to put my name on that list, as well." Fourth seed Zverev, meanwhile, will be looking to settle a score with the tournament itself, having been eliminated in the semi-finals here in the three previous editions while still chasing his maiden Grand Slam title. He has reached the final at a major once previously, at the 2020 U.S. Open. "Going from the U.S. Open final where I was two points away (from victory) to being rolled off in a wheelchair here two years ago", after suffering an ankle injury against Nadal, "it's all part of my journey" said the 27-year-old, who won the Rome Masters ahead of the French Open. Zverev, who has been tested in marathon matches here this year, has however been playing some of his best tennis, and his ability to prevent Alcaraz from revving up his devastating forehand will be a key of the contest on court Philippe Chatrier. Alcaraz has won five of their nine meetings so far, and leads 2-1 on clay. Their last encounter on tennis' slowest surface was a one-sided affair, with the Spaniard prevailing 6-1 6-2 in Madrid last year.

Tennis: Alcaraz, Zverev chase maiden French Open title in summit clash on clay

Alexander Zverev exacted revenge on Casper Ruud at the French Open on Friday to reach his second Grand Slam final and first since 2020, with Carlos Alcaraz standing between him and the title.

Fourth seed Zverev, who had lost in the semi-finals at Roland Garros in each of the past three years, fought back to beat Ruud 2-6, 6-2, 6-4, 6-2 in a repeat of their last-four clash 12 months ago.

Zverev won just seven games when the pair met in the 2023 semis and a similar story was on the cards after Ruud cruised through the opening set.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-french-open-carlos-alcaraz-overcomes-jannik-sinner-in-marathon-contest-to-reach-maiden-final-729739">French Open: Carlos Alcaraz overcomes Jannik Sinner in marathon contest to reach maiden final</a>

But the German raised his game, reaching his first French Open final and keeping his hopes of a maiden Grand Slam title alive.

Zverev holds a career 5-4 winning record against Alcaraz, including a victory in their only previous Roland Garros meeting in the 2022 quarter-finals.

Alcaraz earlier battled past incoming world number one Jannik Sinner in five sets.

"If you're in the final of Roland Garros, you deserve to be there. That goes for him, as well," said Zverev. "He played a fantastic match today. Played a fantastic tournament in general, I think. I'm expecting a very difficult match."

There will be two first-time finalists for the first year since Rafael Nadal defeated Mariano Puerta for the first of his 14 titles in 2005.

The 27-year-old Zverev's only previous major final appearance saw him blow a two-set lead to lose to Dominic Thiem at the 2020 US Open.

"I was not ready then to win my first Grand Slam final," said Zverev, the first German man to make the final since Michael Stich in 1996. "I'm definitely not a kid any more, I'm a little older. If not now, then when?"

A German court dropped a case against Zverev over allegations he assaulted an ex-girlfriend earlier on Friday, after a settlement was agreed.

Ruud was targeting a fourth Grand Slam final, but the two-time Roland Garros runner-up was well below his best and struggling with illness.

"I wasn't able to play with the kind of tennis I like to play with intensity because I was kind of limited with my stomach," said Ruud. "I don't want to make an excuse or excuses, but it's frustrating and disappointing."

Alexander Zverev exacted revenge on Casper Ruud at the French Open on Friday to reach his second Grand Slam final and first since 2020, with Carlos Alcaraz standing between him and the title.

Alexander Zverev exacted revenge on Casper Ruud at the French Open on Friday to reach his second Grand Slam final and first since 2020, with Carlos Alcaraz standing between him and the title. Fourth seed Zverev, who had lost in the semi-finals at Roland Garros in each of the past three years, fought back to beat Ruud 2-6, 6-2, 6-4, 6-2 in a repeat of their last-four clash 12 months ago. Zverev won just seven games when the pair met in the 2023 semis and a similar story was on the cards after Ruud cruised through the opening set. ALSO READ: French Open: Carlos Alcaraz overcomes Jannik Sinner in marathon contest to reach maiden final But the German raised his game, reaching his first French Open final and keeping his hopes of a maiden Grand Slam title alive. Zverev holds a career 5-4 winning record against Alcaraz, including a victory in their only previous Roland Garros meeting in the 2022 quarter-finals. Alcaraz earlier battled past incoming world number one Jannik Sinner in five sets. "If you're in the final of Roland Garros, you deserve to be there. That goes for him, as well," said Zverev. "He played a fantastic match today. Played a fantastic tournament in general, I think. I'm expecting a very difficult match." There will be two first-time finalists for the first year since Rafael Nadal defeated Mariano Puerta for the first of his 14 titles in 2005. The 27-year-old Zverev's only previous major final appearance saw him blow a two-set lead to lose to Dominic Thiem at the 2020 US Open. "I was not ready then to win my first Grand Slam final," said Zverev, the first German man to make the final since Michael Stich in 1996. "I'm definitely not a kid any more, I'm a little older. If not now, then when?" A German court dropped a case against Zverev over allegations he assaulted an ex-girlfriend earlier on Friday, after a settlement was agreed. Ruud was targeting a fourth Grand Slam final, but the two-time Roland Garros runner-up was well below his best and struggling with illness. "I wasn't able to play with the kind of tennis I like to play with intensity because I was kind of limited with my stomach," said Ruud. "I don't want to make an excuse or excuses, but it's frustrating and disappointing."

French Open 2024: Alexander Zverev beats Casper Rudd to set up final clash with Alcaraz

Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz has taken a giant step towards completing a career Grand Slam after he overcame Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner in a marathon French Open men’s singles semifinal. The over four-hour-long contest played on Friday (June 7)&nbsp;saw Alcaraz win 2-6, 6-3, 3-6, 6-4, 6-3 to book a place in the final of the French Open 2024. He will face the winner of the&nbsp;Sunday’s final between&nbsp;Casper Ruud and Alexander Zverev.

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<h2>Alcaraz in maiden French Open final</h2>

In one of the standout matches in the French Open this season, both Alcaraz and Sinner dropped only two sets combined before the semifinal. However, it was the Italian who drew the first blood in the match breaking Alcaraz three times in the opening set. While the Spaniard made a comeback with a break back, it was not enough as he won the opening set 6-2. However, the defending Wimbledon champion came roaring back to win the second set 6-3.

Sinner&nbsp;again struck&nbsp;with another decisive break in the third set which laid the platform for the match. He bagged the third set 3-6 and was a set away from another Grand Slam final, having earlier beaten Novak Djokovic in the Australian Open semis in January.&nbsp;

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Alcaraz, however, was not done and broke the Italian’s serve when he was serving to stay in the fourth set at 5-4. Alcaraz then had no issues in settling the contest in the fifth set where he was the dominant force.

The win also means that Spain continues to have a representation in the final of the French Open despite the absence of Rafael Nadal. The great Spanish player was knocked out in the first round by Alexander Zverev, who could eventually face Alcaraz in the final. The German, also the defending Olympic champion, will face Casper Ruud in the other semifinal on Sunday.

Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz has taken a giant step towards completing a career Grand Slam after he overcame Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner in a marathon French Open men’s singles semifinal.

Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz has taken a giant step towards completing a career Grand Slam after he overcame Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner in a marathon French Open men’s singles semifinal. The over four-hour-long contest played on Friday (June 7) saw Alcaraz win 2-6, 6-3, 3-6, 6-4, 6-3 to book a place in the final of the French Open 2024. He will face the winner of the Sunday’s final between Casper Ruud and Alexander Zverev. CARLOS ALCARAZ WINS THIS ONE! #RolandGarros pic.twitter.com/2NRYF16tZO — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) June 7, 2024 × Alcaraz in maiden French Open final In one of the standout matches in the French Open this season, both Alcaraz and Sinner dropped only two sets combined before the semifinal. However, it was the Italian who drew the first blood in the match breaking Alcaraz three times in the opening set. While the Spaniard made a comeback with a break back, it was not enough as he won the opening set 6-2. However, the defending Wimbledon champion came roaring back to win the second set 6-3. Sinner again struck with another decisive break in the third set which laid the platform for the match. He bagged the third set 3-6 and was a set away from another Grand Slam final, having earlier beaten Novak Djokovic in the Australian Open semis in January. ALSO READ | Premier League: Chelsea complete first transfer of summer as Tosin Adarabioyo signed for free from Fulham Alcaraz, however, was not done and broke the Italian’s serve when he was serving to stay in the fourth set at 5-4. Alcaraz then had no issues in settling the contest in the fifth set where he was the dominant force. The win also means that Spain continues to have a representation in the final of the French Open despite the absence of Rafael Nadal. The great Spanish player was knocked out in the first round by Alexander Zverev, who could eventually face Alcaraz in the final. The German, also the defending Olympic champion, will face Casper Ruud in the other semifinal on Sunday.

French Open: Carlos Alcaraz overcomes Jannik Sinner in marathon contest to reach maiden final

Carlos Alcaraz blazed into the semi-finals of the French Open on Tuesday (June 4) when he put on a clinical performance to beat former Roland Garros runner-up Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-3 7-6(3) 6-4.

Alcaraz dropped only three of his first-serve points in the first set and held his nerve through the tiebreak to halt the Greek's mid-match comeback, before delivering one of his superb dropshots on match point.

The Spaniard assured the crowd at Roland Garros that his meeting with number two seed Jannik Sinner would not disappoint, with the Italian playing at the top of his game.

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The pair are evenly split with their career head-to-head record at 4-4. Alcaraz won their most recent meeting, a semi-final match at Indian Wells this year.

"You have to run like it is a marathon, you know, side-to-side... Everything he does, he does it perfectly," Alcaraz told reporters of playing Sinner.

"I think it is the hardest thing to face Jannik. At the same time I love that. I love this kind of matches."

Carlos Alcaraz blazed into the semi-finals of the French Open on Tuesday (June 4) when he put on a clinical performance to beat former Roland Garros runner-up Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-3 7-6(3) 6-4.

Carlos Alcaraz blazed into the semi-finals of the French Open on Tuesday (June 4) when he put on a clinical performance to beat former Roland Garros runner-up Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-3 7-6(3) 6-4. Alcaraz dropped only three of his first-serve points in the first set and held his nerve through the tiebreak to halt the Greek's mid-match comeback, before delivering one of his superb dropshots on match point. The Spaniard assured the crowd at Roland Garros that his meeting with number two seed Jannik Sinner would not disappoint, with the Italian playing at the top of his game. ALSO READ | Manchester City sue Premier League over financial rules ahead of 115 charges hearing The pair are evenly split with their career head-to-head record at 4-4. Alcaraz won their most recent meeting, a semi-final match at Indian Wells this year. "You have to run like it is a marathon, you know, side-to-side... Everything he does, he does it perfectly," Alcaraz told reporters of playing Sinner. "I think it is the hardest thing to face Jannik. At the same time I love that. I love this kind of matches."

French Open: Carlos Alcaraz downs Stefanos Tsitsipas to set up semi-final showdown with Jannik Sinner

A place in the final of the French Open will be up for grabs on Friday (June 7) when Carlos Alcaraz takes on Italian Jannik Sinner in the semifinal clash. Sinner, who beat Novak Djokovic at the Australian Open to win the whole thing, will target back-to-back Grand Slam titles when he squares off against the defending Wimbledon champion. After beating Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-3, 7-6, 6-4 in an easy contest, Alcaraz spoke highly of his next opponent terming him the “best player in the world” at the moment.

<h2>Alcaraz full of praise for Sinner</h2>

"I think right now he's the best player in the world, the player who's playing the best tennis right now,” Alcaraz said after beating Stefanos Tsitsipas in the quarterfinal on Tuesday.

"We've played great matches, high level," said Alcaraz. "I'm grateful to have him on the tour, at this level because he pushes me to be my best level... to wake up in the morning to try to get better to try to beat him.

"It's going to be a really good challenge, I'm ready for that challenge. It's the match that everybody wants to watch."

"I'm sure he'll show his best tennis, I will as well, so let's see who's going to win," said Alcaraz.

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French Open 2024 will be significant as there will be a passing of the baton in men’s tennis. This year will be the first time in over two decades that neither Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic or Roger Federer will be part of the French Open semifinals.

Both Alcaraz and Sinner are hungry for success and have already achieved Grand Slam glory in their brief careers. While both will carry the baton of success in men’s tennis for time to come, on Friday only one can reach the final of the French Open.

While it will be a first semifinal appearance for Sinner in the French Open semis, Alcaraz will be playing his second having also reached the same stage in 2023. He then lost to Novak Djokovic in a four-set contest. But a win will see him get one step closer to the French Open title and could see him become just the fifth other player to lift the title in the last two decades. &nbsp;

A place in the final of the French Open will be up for grabs on Friday (June 7) when Carlos Alcaraz takes on Italian Jannik Sinner in the semifinal clash. Sinner, who beat Novak Djokovic at the Australian Open to win the whole thing, will target back-to-back Grand Slam titles when he squares off against the defending Wimbledon champion.

A place in the final of the French Open will be up for grabs on Friday (June 7) when Carlos Alcaraz takes on Italian Jannik Sinner in the semifinal clash. Sinner, who beat Novak Djokovic at the Australian Open to win the whole thing, will target back-to-back Grand Slam titles when he squares off against the defending Wimbledon champion. After beating Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-3, 7-6, 6-4 in an easy contest, Alcaraz spoke highly of his next opponent terming him the “best player in the world” at the moment. Alcaraz full of praise for Sinner "I think right now he's the best player in the world, the player who's playing the best tennis right now,” Alcaraz said after beating Stefanos Tsitsipas in the quarterfinal on Tuesday. "We've played great matches, high level," said Alcaraz. "I'm grateful to have him on the tour, at this level because he pushes me to be my best level... to wake up in the morning to try to get better to try to beat him. "It's going to be a really good challenge, I'm ready for that challenge. It's the match that everybody wants to watch." "I'm sure he'll show his best tennis, I will as well, so let's see who's going to win," said Alcaraz. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup 2024: Max O'Dowd half-century steers Netherlands past Nepal French Open 2024 will be significant as there will be a passing of the baton in men’s tennis. This year will be the first time in over two decades that neither Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic or Roger Federer will be part of the French Open semifinals. Both Alcaraz and Sinner are hungry for success and have already achieved Grand Slam glory in their brief careers. While both will carry the baton of success in men’s tennis for time to come, on Friday only one can reach the final of the French Open. While it will be a first semifinal appearance for Sinner in the French Open semis, Alcaraz will be playing his second having also reached the same stage in 2023. He then lost to Novak Djokovic in a four-set contest. But a win will see him get one step closer to the French Open title and could see him become just the fifth other player to lift the title in the last two decades.

French Open 2024: Carlos Alcaraz terms Jannik Sinner 'best in the world' ahead of semifinal clash

Third-seed Carlos Alcaraz qualified to the quarterfinals with an impressive 6-3, 6-2, 6-1&nbsp;win over Felix Auger-Aliassime who suffered a groin injury, midway through the match. Alcaraz's victory means the stage is set up for a mouth-watering clash against Stefanos Tsitsipas for a place in the semi-finals, where the Spaniard was defeated last year by eventual winner, Novak Djokovic.

Alcaraz had a horror start to the match as the Canadian broke him in the first game of the match. However, the two-time Grand Slam winner held his nerves and immediately broke back to assert his dominance.

It was in the eighth game that Alcaraz won the breakpoint after a lengthy 24 shots rally to take advantage in the set and wrap it up on his serve in the next game.&nbsp;

Auger-Aliassime started the second set promisingly and managed to stay in the contest. However, a groin issue while returning one of Alcaraz's booming serve meant that he had to seek a medical timeout.&nbsp;

<h2>Alcaraz goes for the jugular&nbsp;</h2>

After taking a lengthy break,&nbsp;Auger-Aliassime did return to the centre court at the Philippe Chatrier in front of an applauding audience but could not get his mojo back.&nbsp;

Alcaraz, with the momentum by his side, went after the Canadian and left him in the dust with his effortless court coverage. The Spaniard was particularly impressive in coming up to the net and placing his shots with impeccable&nbsp;precision.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-french-open-things-couldve-been-handled-djokovic-unhappy-with-roland-garros-officials-after-3-am-finish-728045">Also read |&nbsp;French Open: ‘Things could have...,’ Djokovic unhappy with Roland Garros officials after 3 am finish</a>

The third set was a mere formality as&nbsp;Auger-Aliassime dropped his weapons or perhaps was forced to do so as Alcaraz unleashed his full range of shots upon him.&nbsp;

"I was looking forward to this, I was very happy to win. I felt strong in the rallies, five or six or seven shots in a point. Good intensity and rhythm. He [Auger-Aliassime]&nbsp;leads with his serves and gets a lot of free points," said Alcaraz in the post-match interview.&nbsp;

While Alcaraz won in straight sets, Tsitsipas had to overcome a set while battling tiebreaker in the second to finish on the right side of the result against&nbsp;Matteo Arnaldi who had defeated Andrey Rublev in the previous round.&nbsp;

Alcaraz has won all five past encounters, including a straight-sets win over Tsitsipas in the quarter-finals of last year's French Open. However, the Greek, who finished as the runner-up last year, would be hoping to go the distance this time.&nbsp;

Third-seed Carlos Alcaraz qualified to the quarterfinals with an impressive 6-3, 6-2, 6-1 win over Felix Auger-Aliassime who suffered a groin injury, midway through the match.

Third-seed Carlos Alcaraz qualified to the quarterfinals with an impressive 6-3, 6-2, 6-1 win over Felix Auger-Aliassime who suffered a groin injury, midway through the match. Alcaraz's victory means the stage is set up for a mouth-watering clash against Stefanos Tsitsipas for a place in the semi-finals, where the Spaniard was defeated last year by eventual winner, Novak Djokovic. Alcaraz had a horror start to the match as the Canadian broke him in the first game of the match. However, the two-time Grand Slam winner held his nerves and immediately broke back to assert his dominance. It was in the eighth game that Alcaraz won the breakpoint after a lengthy 24 shots rally to take advantage in the set and wrap it up on his serve in the next game. Auger-Aliassime started the second set promisingly and managed to stay in the contest. However, a groin issue while returning one of Alcaraz's booming serve meant that he had to seek a medical timeout. Alcaraz goes for the jugular After taking a lengthy break, Auger-Aliassime did return to the centre court at the Philippe Chatrier in front of an applauding audience but could not get his mojo back. Alcaraz, with the momentum by his side, went after the Canadian and left him in the dust with his effortless court coverage. The Spaniard was particularly impressive in coming up to the net and placing his shots with impeccable precision. Also read | French Open: ‘Things could have...,’ Djokovic unhappy with Roland Garros officials after 3 am finish The third set was a mere formality as Auger-Aliassime dropped his weapons or perhaps was forced to do so as Alcaraz unleashed his full range of shots upon him. "I was looking forward to this, I was very happy to win. I felt strong in the rallies, five or six or seven shots in a point. Good intensity and rhythm. He [Auger-Aliassime] leads with his serves and gets a lot of free points," said Alcaraz in the post-match interview. While Alcaraz won in straight sets, Tsitsipas had to overcome a set while battling tiebreaker in the second to finish on the right side of the result against Matteo Arnaldi who had defeated Andrey Rublev in the previous round. Alcaraz has won all five past encounters, including a straight-sets win over Tsitsipas in the quarter-finals of last year's French Open. However, the Greek, who finished as the runner-up last year, would be hoping to go the distance this time.

French Open: Carlos Alcaraz blows away Auger-Aliassime to set up quarter-final clash against Tsitsipas

Reigning champion Iga Swiatek celebrated her 23rd birthday by brushing aside Marie Bouzkova to reach the French Open last 16 on Friday, while Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz both powered into the second week.

Alcaraz got the better of Sebastian Korda in straight sets to edge closer to a semi-final meeting with Sinner, who saw off Russian Pavel Kotov 6-4, 6-4, 6-4.

"Sebastian Korda is a great player and a really good ball striker," said Alcaraz.

"It is difficult to play against him. I had to run a lot. It was like a marathon for me today."

Sixth seed Andrey Rublev suffered a shock exit at the hands of unheralded Italian Matteo Arnaldi, losing his cool repeatedly as anger at his performance boiled over.

Swiatek had to save a match point to avoid an upset defeat by fellow four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka in a second-round thriller, but she was never in trouble during a 6-4, 6-2 win over Czech Bouzkova.

"I feel good physically, I had a day off yesterday," said Swiatek. "I don't feel like the match (against Osaka) stayed with me but we'll see at the end of the tournament."

The world number one is a red-hot favourite to lift the Coupe Suzanne Lenglen for a third straight year and become only the fourth woman to win four Roland Garros titles in the Open era.

She was much closer to her best form on Friday, hitting 34 winners and making only 19 unforced errors.

Swiatek will play Russia's Anastasia Potapova in the next round on Sunday.

The Polish star's win-loss record at the tournament stands at 32-2 and she has never failed to reach the second week.

Coco Gauff held off a late fightback from Australian Open semi-finalist Dayana Yastremska to win 6-2, 6-4 in the first match of the day on Court Philippe Chatrier.

The reigning US Open champion has an excellent record at Roland Garros, having previously reached two quarter-finals and the 2022 final which she lost to Swiatek.

The 20-year-old failed to serve out the match when leading 5-2 in the second set, but saved three break points in the 10th game before getting over the line, making the fourth round for a fourth straight year.

"When it was time to close out and the games were getting close and tight, I was trying to just remind myself I'm in the better position," Gauff said.

"I'm the one up a set and double break, so I was just reminding myself of that."

Gauff will play Elisabetta Cocciaretto for a last-eight berth, after the unseeded Italian beat Russian 17th seed Liudmila Samsonova in straight sets.

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<h2>Angry Rublev crashes out</h2>

Rublev became the biggest casualty in the men's draw so far, as he fell to a surprise straight-sets defeat by Italian Matteo Arnaldi.

Rublev, who lifted the Madrid Open title last month, repeatedly smashed his racquet in frustration as he made 37 unforced errors in an erratic display.

"Completely disappointed with myself the way I behaved, the way I performed," admitted the Russian.

"The problem is the head, that today basically I killed myself, and that's it."

Arnaldi will face former runner-up Stefanos Tsitsipas in round four after the Greek downed China's Zhang Zhizhen 6-3, 6-3, 6-1.

Sinner barely had to break sweat, saving the only break point he faced in a dominant display against Kotov.

The Australian Open champion, who will overtake Novak Djokovic as world number one if he reaches the final, will next take on home hope Corentin Moutet who came from behind to defeat Sebastian Ofner in four sets.

Sinner, who has only lost two matches so far this year, is yet to drop a set in the tournament.

Wimbledon champion Alcaraz came through a potentially tough test against American 27th seed Korda 6-4, 7-6 (7/5), 6-3 in the night session.

The world number three blasted 38 winners past his opponent to book a meeting with either Ben Shelton or Felix Auger-Aliassime, whose match was one of three men's ties suspended overnight due to rain.

Alcaraz has now reached at least the fourth round in his last eight Grand Slam events.

Elsewhere in the women's draw, Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova ended the run of Frenchwoman Chloe Pacquet, winning 6-1, 6-3.

She will next face Serbian qualifier Olga Danilovic, who backed up her upset win over Danielle Collins with another comeback victory in a deciding-set tie-break against Donna Vekic.

Tunisian eighth seed Ons Jabeur beat Leylah Fernandez, teeing up a fourth-round match with Clara Tauson, after the Dane followed her surprise second-round success against 2017 champion Jelena Ostapenko by knocking out former finalist Sofia Kenin.

Reigning champion Iga Swiatek celebrated her 23rd birthday by brushing aside Marie Bouzkova to reach the French Open last 16 on Friday, while Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz both powered into the second week.

Reigning champion Iga Swiatek celebrated her 23rd birthday by brushing aside Marie Bouzkova to reach the French Open last 16 on Friday, while Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz both powered into the second week. Alcaraz got the better of Sebastian Korda in straight sets to edge closer to a semi-final meeting with Sinner, who saw off Russian Pavel Kotov 6-4, 6-4, 6-4. "Sebastian Korda is a great player and a really good ball striker," said Alcaraz. "It is difficult to play against him. I had to run a lot. It was like a marathon for me today." Sixth seed Andrey Rublev suffered a shock exit at the hands of unheralded Italian Matteo Arnaldi, losing his cool repeatedly as anger at his performance boiled over. Swiatek had to save a match point to avoid an upset defeat by fellow four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka in a second-round thriller, but she was never in trouble during a 6-4, 6-2 win over Czech Bouzkova. "I feel good physically, I had a day off yesterday," said Swiatek. "I don't feel like the match (against Osaka) stayed with me but we'll see at the end of the tournament." The world number one is a red-hot favourite to lift the Coupe Suzanne Lenglen for a third straight year and become only the fourth woman to win four Roland Garros titles in the Open era. She was much closer to her best form on Friday, hitting 34 winners and making only 19 unforced errors. Swiatek will play Russia's Anastasia Potapova in the next round on Sunday. The Polish star's win-loss record at the tournament stands at 32-2 and she has never failed to reach the second week. Coco Gauff held off a late fightback from Australian Open semi-finalist Dayana Yastremska to win 6-2, 6-4 in the first match of the day on Court Philippe Chatrier. The reigning US Open champion has an excellent record at Roland Garros, having previously reached two quarter-finals and the 2022 final which she lost to Swiatek. The 20-year-old failed to serve out the match when leading 5-2 in the second set, but saved three break points in the 10th game before getting over the line, making the fourth round for a fourth straight year. "When it was time to close out and the games were getting close and tight, I was trying to just remind myself I'm in the better position," Gauff said. "I'm the one up a set and double break, so I was just reminding myself of that." Gauff will play Elisabetta Cocciaretto for a last-eight berth, after the unseeded Italian beat Russian 17th seed Liudmila Samsonova in straight sets. ALSO READ | FIFA extends protection to female players and coaches in HISTORIC decision Angry Rublev crashes out Rublev became the biggest casualty in the men's draw so far, as he fell to a surprise straight-sets defeat by Italian Matteo Arnaldi. Rublev, who lifted the Madrid Open title last month, repeatedly smashed his racquet in frustration as he made 37 unforced errors in an erratic display. "Completely disappointed with myself the way I behaved, the way I performed," admitted the Russian. "The problem is the head, that today basically I killed myself, and that's it." Arnaldi will face former runner-up Stefanos Tsitsipas in round four after the Greek downed China's Zhang Zhizhen 6-3, 6-3, 6-1. Sinner barely had to break sweat, saving the only break point he faced in a dominant display against Kotov. The Australian Open champion, who will overtake Novak Djokovic as world number one if he reaches the final, will next take on home hope Corentin Moutet who came from behind to defeat Sebastian Ofner in four sets. Sinner, who has only lost two matches so far this year, is yet to drop a set in the tournament. Wimbledon champion Alcaraz came through a potentially tough test against American 27th seed Korda 6-4, 7-6 (7/5), 6-3 in the night session. The world number three blasted 38 winners past his opponent to book a meeting with either Ben Shelton or Felix Auger-Aliassime, whose match was one of three men's ties suspended overnight due to rain. Alcaraz has now reached at least the fourth round in his last eight Grand Slam events. Elsewhere in the women's draw, Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova ended the run of Frenchwoman Chloe Pacquet, winning 6-1, 6-3. She will next face Serbian qualifier Olga Danilovic, who backed up her upset win over Danielle Collins with another comeback victory in a deciding-set tie-break against Donna Vekic. Tunisian eighth seed Ons Jabeur beat Leylah Fernandez, teeing up a fourth-round match with Clara Tauson, after the Dane followed her surprise second-round success against 2017 champion Jelena Ostapenko by knocking out former finalist Sofia Kenin.

French Open: Carlos Alcaraz out-muscles Sebastian Korda to reach quarterfinal

World number three and reigning Wimbledon champion Alcaraz eased to a 6-1, 6-2, 6-1 win over America's J.J. Wolf, the 107th-ranked player who entered the main draw as a 'lucky loser' from qualifying.

Alcaraz, 21, who made the semi-finals in 2023 where he was defeated by Novak Djokovic, took his first-round record at the majors to 13-0.

Alcaraz showed no sign of suffering from the right arm injury which sidelined him from the Rome Open as he coasted to victory on the back of 27 winners and nine breaks of serve.

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"I don't need too many matches to be at my best," said Alcaraz.

"I have practised with a lot of top players in Paris this week and the forearm is feeling better and better."

Defending champion Novak Djokovic begins his bid for a fourth French Open title and 25th major on Tuesday.

"Low expectations and high hopes," said the Serb on Sunday after arriving in Paris without a title in the season for the first time since 2018.&nbsp;

Later Sunday, Stan Wawrinka, the 39-year-old 2015 champion, and 2016 runner-up Andy Murray meet for the 23rd time, a rivalry which has included two semi-final clashes in Paris.

Murray is playing his final season on tour but whether or not 14-time champion Rafael Nadal joins him in retirement later this year remains to be seen.

Nadal, who will be 38 on June 3, revealed Saturday that he hasn't committed himself to retiring and wanted to "100% keep the door open".

He missed the tournament in 2023 with injury while his 2024 appearance may be brief after he was drawn to face fourth-ranked Alexander Zverev on Monday.

"It's a big, big chance that this is going to be my last Roland Garros, but if I have to tell you it's 100% my last Roland Garros, sorry, but I will not," Nadal said.

The Spanish legend has racked up 112 wins in 115 matches at the tournament since his title-winning 2005 debut when he was just 19.

He has 22 Grand Slam titles -- second only to Djokovic's 24 on the all-time men's list -- but his career has been plagued by injuries.

World number three and reigning Wimbledon champion Alcaraz eased to a 6-1, 6-2, 6-1 win over America's J.J. Wolf, the 107th-ranked player who entered the main draw as a 'lucky loser' from qualifying.

World number three and reigning Wimbledon champion Alcaraz eased to a 6-1, 6-2, 6-1 win over America's J.J. Wolf, the 107th-ranked player who entered the main draw as a 'lucky loser' from qualifying. Alcaraz, 21, who made the semi-finals in 2023 where he was defeated by Novak Djokovic, took his first-round record at the majors to 13-0. Alcaraz showed no sign of suffering from the right arm injury which sidelined him from the Rome Open as he coasted to victory on the back of 27 winners and nine breaks of serve. Also Read: French Open: Naomi Osaka off to winning start with first round win; likely to face Iga Swiatek in next round "I don't need too many matches to be at my best," said Alcaraz. "I have practised with a lot of top players in Paris this week and the forearm is feeling better and better." Defending champion Novak Djokovic begins his bid for a fourth French Open title and 25th major on Tuesday. "Low expectations and high hopes," said the Serb on Sunday after arriving in Paris without a title in the season for the first time since 2018. Later Sunday, Stan Wawrinka, the 39-year-old 2015 champion, and 2016 runner-up Andy Murray meet for the 23rd time, a rivalry which has included two semi-final clashes in Paris. Murray is playing his final season on tour but whether or not 14-time champion Rafael Nadal joins him in retirement later this year remains to be seen. Nadal, who will be 38 on June 3, revealed Saturday that he hasn't committed himself to retiring and wanted to "100% keep the door open". He missed the tournament in 2023 with injury while his 2024 appearance may be brief after he was drawn to face fourth-ranked Alexander Zverev on Monday. "It's a big, big chance that this is going to be my last Roland Garros, but if I have to tell you it's 100% my last Roland Garros, sorry, but I will not," Nadal said. The Spanish legend has racked up 112 wins in 115 matches at the tournament since his title-winning 2005 debut when he was just 19. He has 22 Grand Slam titles -- second only to Djokovic's 24 on the all-time men's list -- but his career has been plagued by injuries.

French Open 2024: Carlos Alcaraz makes winning start at Roland Garros

World number three Carlos Alcaraz on Friday withdrew from next week's ATP Italian Open due to a right forearm injury that sidelined him in Monte Carlo and Barcelona.

The blow comes weeks away from the second Grand Slam of the season, the French Open.&nbsp;

"I felt some pain after playing in Madrid (he lost on Wednesday), some discomfort in my arm," the Spaniard wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

"Unfortunately, I will not be able to play in Rome. I need to rest so I can recover and play 100 percent pain free."

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On Wednesday, Alcaraz saw his title defence and 14-match winning streak in Madrid come to an with a 4-6, 6-3, 6-2 defeat at the hands of Andrey Rublev in the quarter-finals.

The French Open, the sole Grand Slam on clay, gets underway on May 26. Alcaraz reached last year's semi-finals.&nbsp;

The two-time Grand Slam champion, who won the US Open in 2022 and Wimbledon last year, turns 21 on Sunday.&nbsp;

World number three Carlos Alcaraz on Friday withdrew from next week's ATP Italian Open due to a right forearm injury that sidelined him in Monte Carlo and Barcelona.

World number three Carlos Alcaraz on Friday withdrew from next week's ATP Italian Open due to a right forearm injury that sidelined him in Monte Carlo and Barcelona. The blow comes weeks away from the second Grand Slam of the season, the French Open. "I felt some pain after playing in Madrid (he lost on Wednesday), some discomfort in my arm," the Spaniard wrote on X, formerly Twitter. "Unfortunately, I will not be able to play in Rome. I need to rest so I can recover and play 100 percent pain free." ALSO READ | IPL 2024: Rohit meets Rinku ahead of MI-KKR tie at Wankhede as Tom Moody calls it ‘great leadership’ On Wednesday, Alcaraz saw his title defence and 14-match winning streak in Madrid come to an with a 4-6, 6-3, 6-2 defeat at the hands of Andrey Rublev in the quarter-finals. The French Open, the sole Grand Slam on clay, gets underway on May 26. Alcaraz reached last year's semi-finals. The two-time Grand Slam champion, who won the US Open in 2022 and Wimbledon last year, turns 21 on Sunday.

Tennis: Carlos Alcaraz withdraws from ATP Italian Open with arm injury

Carlos Alcaraz's hopes of becoming the first player to win three-straight Madrid Open titles came undone as the second seed fell to a 4-6 6-3 6-2 loss in front of his home crowd to Russian seventh seed Andrey Rublev in the quarter-finals on Wednesday.

The 20-year-old two-times grand slam champion was not at his best despite taking the opening set in 41 minutes, while Rublev put in a dominant performance to roar back and snap Alcaraz's 14-match winning streak at the ATP Masters 1000 tournament. It will be Rublev's first semi-final in Madrid. The 26-year-old was on a four-match losing streak coming into the claycourt event.

"Maybe this week is a relief but then next week we go back to the same... so better not to think this way because when you start to think 'Oh, how good everything is' that's what happened at the beginning of the season," Rublev said.

"Then, for six weeks, I wasn't winning anything. It's better to not think at all. It's not bad, it's not good. It's just a moment. It happens to everyone, every player has been through these moments. "The most important thing is to keep working and improving and then remember that one week can change anything."

Rublev completely outplayed Alcaraz in the deciding set, racing to a 4-1 lead before he wrapped up his comeback. Rublev will face American Taylor Fritz in Friday's semi-final after the 12th seed battled past Argentina's Francisco Cerundolo 6-1 3-6 6-3.

Alcaraz was the last Spaniard standing after 22-times Grand Slam winner Rafa Nadal exited the tournament following a straight sets defeat to the Czech Republic's 31st-ranked Jiri Lehecka in the round of 16 on Tuesday.

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Having successfully defended his Indian Wells title in March and then reached the Miami Open quarter-finals, Alcaraz injured his right forearm during a practice session in Monaco and he continues to struggle with the problem that has derailed the start of his claycourt season.

"I have to keep working to recover my normal forehand without thinking about my forearm. Today I thought about it more than yesterday," Alcaraz told reporters. "I think that in Rome, I will continue to play with it (an arm sleeve) as a precaution.

"The balance is positive, but when I go out on court I don't want to lose. If we look at the overall it has been a very good week."

SINNER WITHDRAWS

Italian top seed Jannik Sinner, who was due to face Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime in the Madrid Open quarter-finals on Thursday, has pulled out from the tournament with a hip injury.

"Very sad to have to withdraw from my next match here in Madrid," Sinner said on social media platform X. "My hip has been bothering me this week and has slowly been getting more painful. "Taking the advice from the doctors we decided it's best to not play further and make it worse."

Carlos Alcaraz's hopes of becoming the first player to win three-straight Madrid Open titles came undone as the second seed fell to a 4-6 6-3 6-2 loss in front of his home crowd to Russian seventh seed Andrey Rublev in the quarter-finals on Wednesday.

Carlos Alcaraz's hopes of becoming the first player to win three-straight Madrid Open titles came undone as the second seed fell to a 4-6 6-3 6-2 loss in front of his home crowd to Russian seventh seed Andrey Rublev in the quarter-finals on Wednesday. The 20-year-old two-times grand slam champion was not at his best despite taking the opening set in 41 minutes, while Rublev put in a dominant performance to roar back and snap Alcaraz's 14-match winning streak at the ATP Masters 1000 tournament. It will be Rublev's first semi-final in Madrid. The 26-year-old was on a four-match losing streak coming into the claycourt event. "Maybe this week is a relief but then next week we go back to the same... so better not to think this way because when you start to think 'Oh, how good everything is' that's what happened at the beginning of the season," Rublev said. "Then, for six weeks, I wasn't winning anything. It's better to not think at all. It's not bad, it's not good. It's just a moment. It happens to everyone, every player has been through these moments. "The most important thing is to keep working and improving and then remember that one week can change anything." Rublev completely outplayed Alcaraz in the deciding set, racing to a 4-1 lead before he wrapped up his comeback. Rublev will face American Taylor Fritz in Friday's semi-final after the 12th seed battled past Argentina's Francisco Cerundolo 6-1 3-6 6-3. Alcaraz was the last Spaniard standing after 22-times Grand Slam winner Rafa Nadal exited the tournament following a straight sets defeat to the Czech Republic's 31st-ranked Jiri Lehecka in the round of 16 on Tuesday. Also read: Rafael Nadal gets emotional after Madrid Open defeat to Jiri Lehecka - WATCH Having successfully defended his Indian Wells title in March and then reached the Miami Open quarter-finals, Alcaraz injured his right forearm during a practice session in Monaco and he continues to struggle with the problem that has derailed the start of his claycourt season. "I have to keep working to recover my normal forehand without thinking about my forearm. Today I thought about it more than yesterday," Alcaraz told reporters. "I think that in Rome, I will continue to play with it (an arm sleeve) as a precaution. "The balance is positive, but when I go out on court I don't want to lose. If we look at the overall it has been a very good week." SINNER WITHDRAWS Italian top seed Jannik Sinner, who was due to face Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime in the Madrid Open quarter-finals on Thursday, has pulled out from the tournament with a hip injury. "Very sad to have to withdraw from my next match here in Madrid," Sinner said on social media platform X. "My hip has been bothering me this week and has slowly been getting more painful. "Taking the advice from the doctors we decided it's best to not play further and make it worse."

Tennis: Flawless Andrey Rublev knocks out champion Carlos Alcaraz to move into Madrid semis

Carlos Alcaraz said he is playing pain-free at the Madrid Open following an arm injury that derailed the start of his claycourt season but the defending champion still has some lingering doubts about his forehand. The 20-year-old successfully defended his Indian Wells title last month and then reached the Miami Open quarter-finals before injuring his right forearm during a practice session in Monaco.

Alcaraz, who missed the Monte Carlo and Barcelona tournaments before making a comeback in Madrid, said he had tweaked his style slightly on the advice of his coach "Juanqui" - Juan Carlos Ferrero. "When I want to hit a forehand hard, I'm asking myself how the arm will react. It's there in my mind," the world number three said after beating Thiago Seyboth Wild 6-3 6-3 in the third round on Sunday.

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"Juanqui tells me to go with a relaxed hand and that's what I do. "I still don't trust 100% the forearm. I have doubts, it's just in my head. I love competing, so from time to time I want to go hard and I think about it. "I can't say that I play at a lower percentage, I play differently. You're used to seeing me push my forehand to 200% several times in matches. Juanqui tells me I don't need to go that far. "I'm happy with my game and with the ball's trajectory. I'm moving well, feeling good and I have no pain. I just need time to let these thoughts go away."

The second-seeded Spaniard, who is seeking a third straight trophy in Madrid ahead of next month's French Open, next plays Jan-Lennard Struff in a rematch of last year's title clash.

Carlos Alcaraz said he is playing pain-free at the Madrid Open following an arm injury that derailed the start of his claycourt season but the defending champion still has some lingering doubts about his forehand.

Carlos Alcaraz said he is playing pain-free at the Madrid Open following an arm injury that derailed the start of his claycourt season but the defending champion still has some lingering doubts about his forehand. The 20-year-old successfully defended his Indian Wells title last month and then reached the Miami Open quarter-finals before injuring his right forearm during a practice session in Monaco. Alcaraz, who missed the Monte Carlo and Barcelona tournaments before making a comeback in Madrid, said he had tweaked his style slightly on the advice of his coach "Juanqui" - Juan Carlos Ferrero. "When I want to hit a forehand hard, I'm asking myself how the arm will react. It's there in my mind," the world number three said after beating Thiago Seyboth Wild 6-3 6-3 in the third round on Sunday. Also read: Houston Texans WR Tank Dell injured in shooting at event in Florida "Juanqui tells me to go with a relaxed hand and that's what I do. "I still don't trust 100% the forearm. I have doubts, it's just in my head. I love competing, so from time to time I want to go hard and I think about it. "I can't say that I play at a lower percentage, I play differently. You're used to seeing me push my forehand to 200% several times in matches. Juanqui tells me I don't need to go that far. "I'm happy with my game and with the ball's trajectory. I'm moving well, feeling good and I have no pain. I just need time to let these thoughts go away." The second-seeded Spaniard, who is seeking a third straight trophy in Madrid ahead of next month's French Open, next plays Jan-Lennard Struff in a rematch of last year's title clash.

Tennis: Spanish star Carlos Alcaraz playing pain-free but hasn't regained full trust in forehand

Carlos Alcaraz passed a "test of fire" to breeze into the Madrid Open last 16 with a straight sets victory over Thiago Seyboth Wild on Sunday (Apr 28), demonstrating he is over his injury worries before the French Open.

Carlos Alcaraz passed a "test of fire" to breeze into the Madrid Open last 16 with a straight sets victory over Thiago Seyboth Wild on Sunday (Apr 28), demonstrating he is over his injury worries before the French Open. The double defending champion came through 6-3, 6-3 and will face last year's runner-up Jan-Lennard Struff in the next round after another impressive showing before adoring fans on home soil. World number three Alcaraz, 20, missed a month prior to the Madrid Open with a forearm issue but returned to crush Alexander Shevchenko in the second round. Still wearing a protective sleeve on his right arm, he had far too much for Seyboth Wild, who had ousted 28th seed Lorenzo Musetti. "Maybe today I was a bit nervous about how it would be, Thiago hits the ball so hard, I didn't know how the forearm would hold up," said Alcaraz on court. "Today was the test of fire, no discomfort, feeling spectacular...from here, we'll be getting better." Indian Wells champion Alcaraz broke for a 4-3 lead in the first set when Seyboth Wild blinked first and sent a forehand into the net. The second seed sealed the set with another break when his Brazilian opponent double-faulted. Alcaraz stepped up a gear in the second set, winning 10 of the first 11 points and breaking in the second and fourth games as he raced into a 5-0 lead. Seyboth Wild battled to a hold and a break to salvage some pride but Alcaraz triumphed on serve when the Brazilian went long. "I was very comfortable on the court, moving, hitting the ball, as I always say finishing the game isn't easy, it's nerves," added Alcaraz. Germany's Struff defeated Frenchman Ugo Humbert 7-5, 6-4. Andrey Rublev came back from 5-0 down in a first set tie-break to beat home favourite Alejandro Davidovich Fokina 7-6 (12/10), 6-4 in a nervy affair. The world number eight saved five set points to stun his opponent, before a similarly hard-fought second set. Rublev broke for a 5-4 lead with a shot which the Spaniard chose to leave as he thought it was long, but Hawk-Eye showed it was in by a whisker. The Russian wrapped up his win with a forehand winner, his second win of the week after four straight defeats prior. Also read | Madrid Open: Rafael Nadal says he's 'far from best' after advancing to third round 'Very tough match' Women's world number four Elena Rybakina eased to a 6-1, 6-4 win over Egypt's Mayar Sherif to reach the last 16. The Kazakh, who has a tour-leading three titles this season after triumphing in Stuttgart last week, broke twice in the first set to move 5-0 ahead on the Spanish clay. Although Sherif battled harder in the second set, surviving four match points to hold for 5-4 down, Rybakina clinched the victory on serve at the Caja Magica. "Despite the score, it was a very tough match," said Rybakina, who also leads the tour with 28 wins. "It was a lot of deuces and we both fought a lot. I'm really happy with the performance today." Rybakina will face teenager Sara Bejlek in the next round after the Czech defeated American Ashlyn Krueger 6-3, 6-1. "I've never played against a player like this," said the 18-year-old. "I will try my best and we'll see how it will go tomorrow." Mirra Andreeva defeated Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova 7-5, 6-1 to return to the last 16 for the second year running. The 16-year-old Russian won 25 points to nine in the second set against the world number seven from the Czech Republic.

Madrid Open: Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz advances to last 16 after crushing Wild

Defending Madrid Open champions Carlos Alcaraz and Aryna Sabalenka both triumphed in their opening clashes in the Spanish capital on Friday to reach the third round.

Alcaraz returned after a month out to begin his double defence with a convincing 6-2, 6-1 win over Alexander Shevchenko, while Sabalenka survived a tense three-set tussle against the in-form Magda Linette.

Men's world number three Alcaraz shone on home clay after a forearm problem led to his withdrawals from the Monte Carlo Masters and Barcelona Open.

"It's been quite a tough month for me, with the uncertainty over when I'd be back," said Alcaraz. "The priority today was to see how I felt, in a difficult match.

"The feelings were very good, and I think I played at a very good level despite coming without rhythm... I am very happy and it's a pleasure to play here in Madrid again."

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Wearing a protective sleeve on his right arm, two-time Grand Slam winner Alcaraz quickly dispelled any doubts after his time out by flying out of the blocks in the first set with a break.

The 20-year-old Spaniard was as exciting as ever, frequently on the attack, and secured a second break in the fifth game for a 4-1 lead.

Indian Wells winner Alcaraz hit the net with a drop shot to let the Kazakhstani back in but broke again himself for a 5-2 advantage which he served out.

Alcaraz pulled off two second set breaks for a 3-0 lead but again allowed his 23-year-old opponent to cut the deficit before striking back with a third break, which he consolidated for 5-1.

The 2022 and 2023 Madrid winner and second seed wrapped up his victory in little over an hour with another break when Shevchenko sent a forehand long.

Alcaraz will face Thiago Seyboth Wild in the third round after the Brazilian surprised Lorenzo Musetti 6-4, 6-4.

Andrey Rublev ended a four-match losing streak with a straightforward 6-1, 6-4 win over Facundo Bagnis.

"It feels really great after a while to start with a win and I'm happy with my performance," said Rublev, who lost his temper and obliterated his racquet after a first-round exit in Barcelona.

German fourth seed Alexander Zverev, the champion in 2018 and 2021, comfortably made the third round with a 6-3, 6-2 win over Borna Coric.

Defending Madrid Open champions Carlos Alcaraz and Aryna Sabalenka both triumphed in their opening clashes in the Spanish capital on Friday to reach the third round.

Defending Madrid Open champions Carlos Alcaraz and Aryna Sabalenka both triumphed in their opening clashes in the Spanish capital on Friday to reach the third round. Alcaraz returned after a month out to begin his double defence with a convincing 6-2, 6-1 win over Alexander Shevchenko, while Sabalenka survived a tense three-set tussle against the in-form Magda Linette. Men's world number three Alcaraz shone on home clay after a forearm problem led to his withdrawals from the Monte Carlo Masters and Barcelona Open. "It's been quite a tough month for me, with the uncertainty over when I'd be back," said Alcaraz. "The priority today was to see how I felt, in a difficult match. "The feelings were very good, and I think I played at a very good level despite coming without rhythm... I am very happy and it's a pleasure to play here in Madrid again." ALSO READ: Paris Olympics 2024: France to deploy 6,000 police officers for safe arrival of Olympic torch Wearing a protective sleeve on his right arm, two-time Grand Slam winner Alcaraz quickly dispelled any doubts after his time out by flying out of the blocks in the first set with a break. The 20-year-old Spaniard was as exciting as ever, frequently on the attack, and secured a second break in the fifth game for a 4-1 lead. Indian Wells winner Alcaraz hit the net with a drop shot to let the Kazakhstani back in but broke again himself for a 5-2 advantage which he served out. Alcaraz pulled off two second set breaks for a 3-0 lead but again allowed his 23-year-old opponent to cut the deficit before striking back with a third break, which he consolidated for 5-1. The 2022 and 2023 Madrid winner and second seed wrapped up his victory in little over an hour with another break when Shevchenko sent a forehand long. Alcaraz will face Thiago Seyboth Wild in the third round after the Brazilian surprised Lorenzo Musetti 6-4, 6-4. Andrey Rublev ended a four-match losing streak with a straightforward 6-1, 6-4 win over Facundo Bagnis. "It feels really great after a while to start with a win and I'm happy with my performance," said Rublev, who lost his temper and obliterated his racquet after a first-round exit in Barcelona. German fourth seed Alexander Zverev, the champion in 2018 and 2021, comfortably made the third round with a 6-3, 6-2 win over Borna Coric.

Madrid Open 2024: Defending champions Carlos Alcaraz, Aryna Sabalenka cruise to third round

World number three Carlos Alcaraz has cast doubt on his Madrid Open title defence later this month as the Spaniard nurses a right arm injury that has forced him to miss key tune-up events for the French Open. The 20-year-old successfully defended his Indian Wells title last month and then reached the Miami Open quarter-finals before sustaining the injury in his first practise session for the Monte Carlo Masters.

The two-times Grand Slam champion was unable to play in Monaco and then had to pull out of the Barcelona Open. "My feeling isn't right, but it is what it is. Now I'm fully focused on recovery and I have a little more time," Alcaraz told reporters in Barcelona on Monday, a day after he decided not to defend his title.

"My goal is to try and go to the Madrid Open, but at the moment nothing is certain. I was given specific recovery times and I've respected them, but I haven't felt good. I don't want to get ahead of myself. I can't say I'll be 100% in Madrid, but that's my intention. We'll train and do everything we can so that the feelings improve so I can play a match ... It's also a very special tournament for me."

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Should he be unable to recover in time for the April 24-May 5 Masters tournament in Madrid, Alcaraz could still get some clay court action in ahead of the French Open by competing in Rome the following week. The main draw at the year's second Grand Slam at Roland Garros begins on May 26. Alcaraz reached the semi-finals last year.

World number three Carlos Alcaraz has cast doubt on his Madrid Open title defence later this month as the Spaniard nurses a right arm injury that has forced him to miss key tune-up events for the French Open.

World number three Carlos Alcaraz has cast doubt on his Madrid Open title defence later this month as the Spaniard nurses a right arm injury that has forced him to miss key tune-up events for the French Open. The 20-year-old successfully defended his Indian Wells title last month and then reached the Miami Open quarter-finals before sustaining the injury in his first practise session for the Monte Carlo Masters. The two-times Grand Slam champion was unable to play in Monaco and then had to pull out of the Barcelona Open. "My feeling isn't right, but it is what it is. Now I'm fully focused on recovery and I have a little more time," Alcaraz told reporters in Barcelona on Monday, a day after he decided not to defend his title. "My goal is to try and go to the Madrid Open, but at the moment nothing is certain. I was given specific recovery times and I've respected them, but I haven't felt good. I don't want to get ahead of myself. I can't say I'll be 100% in Madrid, but that's my intention. We'll train and do everything we can so that the feelings improve so I can play a match ... It's also a very special tournament for me." Also read: Tennis: Rafael Nadal confirms comeback, to play in Barcelona Open Should he be unable to recover in time for the April 24-May 5 Masters tournament in Madrid, Alcaraz could still get some clay court action in ahead of the French Open by competing in Rome the following week. The main draw at the year's second Grand Slam at Roland Garros begins on May 26. Alcaraz reached the semi-finals last year.

Tennis: Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz uncertain about Madrid title defence due to arm injury

Carlos Alcaraz's hopes for a Sunshine Double came undone in spectacular fashion as the top-seeded Spaniard fell 6-2 6-4 on Thursday to Grigor Dimitrov, who will move on to face Alexander Zverev in the Miami Open semi-finals.

Dimitrov, the Bulgarian 11th seed, won 77% of his first-serve points compared to just 56% for Alcaraz, turned aside four of the five break points he faced and broke the Spaniard four times during the 92-minute encounter.

It was a crushing defeat for Alcaraz, who arrived in Miami full of confidence after lifting the Indian Wells title 11 days ago but fell three wins shy of becoming the first man to clinch the Sunshine Double since Roger Federer in 2017.

Up next for Dimitrov will be German fourth seed Zverev, who overcame tricky conditions to beat Hungary's Fabian Marozsan 6-3 7-5 in the day's first match on the Stadium court.

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Zverev attacked Marozsan's serve and converted three of his seven break-point chances, swatted aside the two break points he faced and won 80% of his first serve points en route to the last four in Miami where he has yet to drop a set.

Despite not dropping a set in windy conditions, Zverev had his hands full with Marozsan, who is making his Miami debut and enjoyed top-10 upsets over Holger Rune and Alex de Minaur on the way to the quarter-finals.

"If he continues playing like that he's going to rise up the rankings very quickly and he's going to be one of those (top 10) guys himself," Zverev said in his on-court interview.

"When we are in control, I think all top players when they are in control they feel like they can manage the match, manipulate the match a little bit in their own favour.

"But against him that's not possible. That's why he has such a great top-10 record and he's an unbelievable player."

Zverev's win, sealed with a break when he unleashed a brilliant backhand down the line, marked his return to the Miami Open semi-finals for the first time since his runner-up finish in 2018.

Carlos Alcaraz's hopes for a Sunshine Double came undone in spectacular fashion as the top-seeded Spaniard fell 6-2 6-4 on Thursday to Grigor Dimitrov, who will move on to face Alexander Zverev in the Miami Open semi-finals.

Carlos Alcaraz's hopes for a Sunshine Double came undone in spectacular fashion as the top-seeded Spaniard fell 6-2 6-4 on Thursday to Grigor Dimitrov, who will move on to face Alexander Zverev in the Miami Open semi-finals. Dimitrov, the Bulgarian 11th seed, won 77% of his first-serve points compared to just 56% for Alcaraz, turned aside four of the five break points he faced and broke the Spaniard four times during the 92-minute encounter. It was a crushing defeat for Alcaraz, who arrived in Miami full of confidence after lifting the Indian Wells title 11 days ago but fell three wins shy of becoming the first man to clinch the Sunshine Double since Roger Federer in 2017. Up next for Dimitrov will be German fourth seed Zverev, who overcame tricky conditions to beat Hungary's Fabian Marozsan 6-3 7-5 in the day's first match on the Stadium court. ALSO READ: Newcastle United's suspended forward Sandro Tonali in more trouble, charged with breaking betting rules Zverev attacked Marozsan's serve and converted three of his seven break-point chances, swatted aside the two break points he faced and won 80% of his first serve points en route to the last four in Miami where he has yet to drop a set. Despite not dropping a set in windy conditions, Zverev had his hands full with Marozsan, who is making his Miami debut and enjoyed top-10 upsets over Holger Rune and Alex de Minaur on the way to the quarter-finals. "If he continues playing like that he's going to rise up the rankings very quickly and he's going to be one of those (top 10) guys himself," Zverev said in his on-court interview. "When we are in control, I think all top players when they are in control they feel like they can manage the match, manipulate the match a little bit in their own favour. "But against him that's not possible. That's why he has such a great top-10 record and he's an unbelievable player." Zverev's win, sealed with a break when he unleashed a brilliant backhand down the line, marked his return to the Miami Open semi-finals for the first time since his runner-up finish in 2018.

Grigor Dimitrov stuns Carlos Alcaraz to reach Miami Open semis

Indian Wells champion Carlos Alcaraz kept his hopes for a Sunshine Double alive with a 6-3 6-3 win over Lorenzo Musetti to reach the Miami Open quarter-finals for the third straight year on Tuesday. The Spaniard needed less than 90 minutes to dispatch the 23rd seed from Italy, pounding forehands and winning 18 of 22 points when he charged to the net.

Alcaraz broke serve to start the match and again to grab the drama-free first set against his overmatched opponent. Musetti would finally secure his first break of the match to get back on serve trailing 4-3 in the second set when a suddenly error-prone Alcaraz misfired with a backhand.

The momentum would be short-lived, however, with the tournament's 2022 champion breaking back with ease in the next game and ending the affair when Musetti's shot landed in the net on match point. Musetti's best moment came in the second set when he hit a front facing tweener lob over Alcaraz's head and ended the point with a volley to gasps from the fans at Hard Rock Stadium.

"Without a doubt, this is the best I've been feeling," Alcaraz, who had struggled with an ankle injury earlier in the season, said after winning his ninth consecutive match. "I'm feeling great on the court, I'm moving great with no injuries because I don't think about the ankle anymore on the court."

Alcaraz will next face 11th seed Grigor Dimitrov after the Bulgarian's career renaissance continued with a gritty 3-6 6-3 7-6(3) win over Poland's Hubert Hurkacz.

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<h2>MEDVEDEV SURGES</h2>

Daniil Medvedev took another step towards retaining a title for the first time in his career as the Russian third seed beat Germany's Dominik Koepfer 7-6(5) 6-0 to make the quarter-finals. Medvedev overcame a shaky start and converted four break points while dropping serve just once to secure a spot in the last eight in Miami where he has yet to drop a set.

Koepfer was the early aggressor, using a pair of holds at love to build a 4-3 lead in the first set, but Medvedev forced a tiebreak in which he lost the opening four points before finding his way. With a frustrated Koepfer suddenly losing control of his forehand, Medvedev enjoyed much smoother passage through the second set where he broke twice to build a commanding 4-0 lead before closing out the match with a break to love.

"Sometimes it happens when you lose the first set the way he lost ... it brings your (opponent's) energy down and I knew that I had to use it (to my advantage) in the beginning of the second set that's where it was the most important," Medvedev said after collecting his 350th career win.

The Russian will face Chile's Nicolas Jarry, the 22nd seed, in the last eight, after he beat seventh seed Casper Ruud of Norway 7-6(3) 6-3. In other early action, unseeded Czech Tomas Machac beat Italy's Matteo Arnaldi 6-3 6-3 to reach his first Masters 1000 quarter-final.

Machac faces a tough task against second seed Jannik Sinner, who overcame a first set deficit before ultimately coasting to a 6-4 6-3 victory to reach the quarters. Fabian Marozsan, who took out sixth seed Holger Rune earlier in the tournament, continued his stunning run by defeating ninth seed Alex de Minaur 6-4 0-6 6-1.

The unseeded Hungarian, who stretched his win-loss record against top-10 opponents to 4-1, could face a daunting task in the last eight against an in-form Alexander Zverev. The fourth-seeded German set up the clash after outclassing Russian Karen Khachanov 6-1 6-4 in a late night contest.

Indian Wells champion Carlos Alcaraz kept his hopes for a Sunshine Double alive with a 6-3 6-3 win over Lorenzo Musetti to reach the Miami Open quarter-finals for the third straight year on Tuesday.

Indian Wells champion Carlos Alcaraz kept his hopes for a Sunshine Double alive with a 6-3 6-3 win over Lorenzo Musetti to reach the Miami Open quarter-finals for the third straight year on Tuesday. The Spaniard needed less than 90 minutes to dispatch the 23rd seed from Italy, pounding forehands and winning 18 of 22 points when he charged to the net. Alcaraz broke serve to start the match and again to grab the drama-free first set against his overmatched opponent. Musetti would finally secure his first break of the match to get back on serve trailing 4-3 in the second set when a suddenly error-prone Alcaraz misfired with a backhand. The momentum would be short-lived, however, with the tournament's 2022 champion breaking back with ease in the next game and ending the affair when Musetti's shot landed in the net on match point. Musetti's best moment came in the second set when he hit a front facing tweener lob over Alcaraz's head and ended the point with a volley to gasps from the fans at Hard Rock Stadium. "Without a doubt, this is the best I've been feeling," Alcaraz, who had struggled with an ankle injury earlier in the season, said after winning his ninth consecutive match. "I'm feeling great on the court, I'm moving great with no injuries because I don't think about the ankle anymore on the court." Alcaraz will next face 11th seed Grigor Dimitrov after the Bulgarian's career renaissance continued with a gritty 3-6 6-3 7-6(3) win over Poland's Hubert Hurkacz. Also read: Tennis: Elena Rybakina survives Maria Sakkari battle to enter Miami Open semifinals MEDVEDEV SURGES Daniil Medvedev took another step towards retaining a title for the first time in his career as the Russian third seed beat Germany's Dominik Koepfer 7-6(5) 6-0 to make the quarter-finals. Medvedev overcame a shaky start and converted four break points while dropping serve just once to secure a spot in the last eight in Miami where he has yet to drop a set. Koepfer was the early aggressor, using a pair of holds at love to build a 4-3 lead in the first set, but Medvedev forced a tiebreak in which he lost the opening four points before finding his way. With a frustrated Koepfer suddenly losing control of his forehand, Medvedev enjoyed much smoother passage through the second set where he broke twice to build a commanding 4-0 lead before closing out the match with a break to love. "Sometimes it happens when you lose the first set the way he lost ... it brings your (opponent's) energy down and I knew that I had to use it (to my advantage) in the beginning of the second set that's where it was the most important," Medvedev said after collecting his 350th career win. The Russian will face Chile's Nicolas Jarry, the 22nd seed, in the last eight, after he beat seventh seed Casper Ruud of Norway 7-6(3) 6-3. In other early action, unseeded Czech Tomas Machac beat Italy's Matteo Arnaldi 6-3 6-3 to reach his first Masters 1000 quarter-final. Machac faces a tough task against second seed Jannik Sinner, who overcame a first set deficit before ultimately coasting to a 6-4 6-3 victory to reach the quarters. Fabian Marozsan, who took out sixth seed Holger Rune earlier in the tournament, continued his stunning run by defeating ninth seed Alex de Minaur 6-4 0-6 6-1. The unseeded Hungarian, who stretched his win-loss record against top-10 opponents to 4-1, could face a daunting task in the last eight against an in-form Alexander Zverev. The fourth-seeded German set up the clash after outclassing Russian Karen Khachanov 6-1 6-4 in a late night contest.

Tennis: Carlos Alcaraz, Daniil Medvedev into Miami Open quarterfinals

Carlos Alcaraz successfully defended his Indian Wells crown with a 7-6(5) 6-1 win over Daniil Medvedev in the final on Sunday (March 17).

In a rematch of last year's final, Alcaraz started sloppily, spraying errors around the court to fall 3-0 down but raised his level and captured the first set when his Russian opponent's forehand went wide in the tiebreak.

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The Spaniard romped through the second set, raising his arms in the air and letting out a roar when Medvedev missed another forehand wide on match point.

Second seed Alcaraz smacked 25 winners to Medvedev's 11 and was especially effective against his opponent's second serves.

It was an eventful stay in the California desert for the 20-year-old Alcaraz.

The two-time major champion was stung on the forehead when a swarm of bees invaded the court on Thursday, kept his number two ranking by ending Jannik Sinner's 19-match winning streak in the semis and slayed the big-serving fourth seed Medvedev in the final.

Swiatek&nbsp;wins women's singles

Iga Swiatek beat Maria Sakkari 6-4 6-0 in the Indian Wells final on Sunday (March 17) to claim the title for a second time in the California desert.

In a rematch of the 2022 final, world number one Swiatek came out firing, building a 3-0 lead before Sakkari worked her way back into the set for 4-4.

But on her third set point, the Pole dragged Sakkari from one side of the court to the other before capturing the opener with a forehand winner.

Swiatek, who did not drop a set all tournament, dominated the second, crushing a running backhand for a 3-0 lead and then breaking serve for 4-0 as the outmatched Greek began to fade.

A backhand winner down the line put Swiatek a game away and the top seed sealed the win by breaking serve to love when Sakkari's forehand sailed wide on match point.

Swiatek is now 19-4 in her career finals and 8-2 at the WTA 1000 level.

Carlos Alcaraz successfully defended his Indian Wells crown with a 7-6(5) 6-1 win over Daniil Medvedev in the final on Sunday (March 17). In a rematch of last year's final, Alcaraz started sloppily, spraying errors around the court to fall 3-0 down but raised his level and captured the first set when his Russian opponent's forehand went wide in the tiebreak.

Carlos Alcaraz successfully defended his Indian Wells crown with a 7-6(5) 6-1 win over Daniil Medvedev in the final on Sunday (March 17). In a rematch of last year's final, Alcaraz started sloppily, spraying errors around the court to fall 3-0 down but raised his level and captured the first set when his Russian opponent's forehand went wide in the tiebreak. Also Read: Stoppage time goals help Chelsea mat Leicester at home to book FA semis ticket The Spaniard romped through the second set, raising his arms in the air and letting out a roar when Medvedev missed another forehand wide on match point. Second seed Alcaraz smacked 25 winners to Medvedev's 11 and was especially effective against his opponent's second serves. It was an eventful stay in the California desert for the 20-year-old Alcaraz. The two-time major champion was stung on the forehead when a swarm of bees invaded the court on Thursday, kept his number two ranking by ending Jannik Sinner's 19-match winning streak in the semis and slayed the big-serving fourth seed Medvedev in the final. Swiatek wins women's singles Iga Swiatek beat Maria Sakkari 6-4 6-0 in the Indian Wells final on Sunday (March 17) to claim the title for a second time in the California desert. In a rematch of the 2022 final, world number one Swiatek came out firing, building a 3-0 lead before Sakkari worked her way back into the set for 4-4. But on her third set point, the Pole dragged Sakkari from one side of the court to the other before capturing the opener with a forehand winner. Swiatek, who did not drop a set all tournament, dominated the second, crushing a running backhand for a 3-0 lead and then breaking serve for 4-0 as the outmatched Greek began to fade. A backhand winner down the line put Swiatek a game away and the top seed sealed the win by breaking serve to love when Sakkari's forehand sailed wide on match point. Swiatek is now 19-4 in her career finals and 8-2 at the WTA 1000 level.

Tennis: Carlos Alcaraz defends Indian Wells title with win over Daniil Medvedev

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz of Spain and Russian fourth seed Daniil Medvedev will clash in Sunday's final of the Indian Wells in a rematch of last year's summit clash after both prevailed in intense three-setters on Saturday.

Alcaraz came from behind to beat Jannik Sinner 1-6 6-3 6-2 before Medvedev edged out American Tommy Paul 1-6 7-6(3) 6-2 in the second semi-final.

Australian Open champion Sinner has been the hottest player on tour this year and looked poised to run away with the match when the Spaniard's forehand went long to end the 34-minute opening set, which was halted by a three-hour rain delay.

Alcaraz would finally break serve with a powerful forehand that set up a put-away volley for a 3-1 second set lead and hit a drop shot even the speedy Sinner did not try to race down to force a decider between the young rivals.

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With Sinner serving in the third set, the Italian dove to keep a ball in play on break point near the net, his hands scraping along the gritty Indian Wells hard court.

Alcaraz's athletic volley secured the break and Sinner appeared to be bothered by his left hand after the exchange.

Alcaraz went up a double break and 4-1 on a forehand wide by a suddenly error-prone Sinner and sealed the win with a crosscourt forehand winner to keep Sinner from taking his world number two ranking and denying him a 20th consecutive win going back to last year.

"I stayed strong mentally and that's very important," Alcaraz said after ending his opponent's winning streak this season at 16 matches. "I had to run more, defend better than I did in the first set. Put more balls in. Stay strong on the court."

Medvedev eked out a similar comeback win against Paul, who was quick off the blocks, dropping just one game in the opening set before the Russian bounced back.

Paul saved two set points to force a tie-break in the second set but Medvedev won five straight points to draw level with him.

Paul was broken from 40-0 in the first game of the third set, which was pretty much a one-sided affair as Medvedev closed out the match to stay on course to avenge his loss to Alcaraz in last year's final.

"He played an unbelievable first set," Medvedev said of his opponent. "So, I was like, OK, if I want to win I just have to try to do a little bit better to find the shot that's going to make him in trouble. I found some, especially on his serve."

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz of Spain and Russian fourth seed Daniil Medvedev will clash in Sunday's final of the Indian Wells in a rematch of last year's summit clash after both prevailed in intense three-setters on Saturday.

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz of Spain and Russian fourth seed Daniil Medvedev will clash in Sunday's final of the Indian Wells in a rematch of last year's summit clash after both prevailed in intense three-setters on Saturday. Alcaraz came from behind to beat Jannik Sinner 1-6 6-3 6-2 before Medvedev edged out American Tommy Paul 1-6 7-6(3) 6-2 in the second semi-final. Australian Open champion Sinner has been the hottest player on tour this year and looked poised to run away with the match when the Spaniard's forehand went long to end the 34-minute opening set, which was halted by a three-hour rain delay. Alcaraz would finally break serve with a powerful forehand that set up a put-away volley for a 3-1 second set lead and hit a drop shot even the speedy Sinner did not try to race down to force a decider between the young rivals. ALSO READ: Rugby: Ireland keep Six Nations Cup with thrilling win over Scotland With Sinner serving in the third set, the Italian dove to keep a ball in play on break point near the net, his hands scraping along the gritty Indian Wells hard court. Alcaraz's athletic volley secured the break and Sinner appeared to be bothered by his left hand after the exchange. Alcaraz went up a double break and 4-1 on a forehand wide by a suddenly error-prone Sinner and sealed the win with a crosscourt forehand winner to keep Sinner from taking his world number two ranking and denying him a 20th consecutive win going back to last year. "I stayed strong mentally and that's very important," Alcaraz said after ending his opponent's winning streak this season at 16 matches. "I had to run more, defend better than I did in the first set. Put more balls in. Stay strong on the court." Medvedev eked out a similar comeback win against Paul, who was quick off the blocks, dropping just one game in the opening set before the Russian bounced back. Paul saved two set points to force a tie-break in the second set but Medvedev won five straight points to draw level with him. Paul was broken from 40-0 in the first game of the third set, which was pretty much a one-sided affair as Medvedev closed out the match to stay on course to avenge his loss to Alcaraz in last year's final. "He played an unbelievable first set," Medvedev said of his opponent. "So, I was like, OK, if I want to win I just have to try to do a little bit better to find the shot that's going to make him in trouble. I found some, especially on his serve."

Tennis: Carlos Alcaraz to meet Daniil Medvedev in Indian Wells final

Carlos Alcaraz looked back at his best as he swatted aside a swarm of bees and world number six Alexander Zverev to reach the semi-finals at Indian Wells on Thursday (March 14), setting up a clash with the in-form Jannik Sinner.

The world number two took the interruption to clear the bees from the court in his stride before racing past Zverev 6-3 6-1 in little more than 90 minutes to keep his title defense on track.

Zverev did not play badly but Alcaraz's all-court game was just too good, the 20-year-old Spaniard sealing the victory by breaking the German for the fourth time and taking his winning streak in the Californian desert to 10 matches.

"It was strange, I've never seen something like that at a tennis match," twice major champion Alcaraz said of the invasion of the bees.

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"I'm not going to lie, I'm a little bit afraid of the bees. Once the match started again, I managed to stay away from the bees and do the things I needed to do."

Italian Sinner earlier continued his perfect start to the season by cruising past Jiri Lehecka 6-3 6-3 to improve his win-loss record this year to 16-0.

A windy, cool day did little to slow down the hottest player on the men's tour as Sinner was in control throughout, facing a single break chance the entire contest while his opponent piled up unforced errors.

Local hope Tommy Paul also reached the semi-finals with a 6-2 1-6 6-3 win over Casper Ruud. He will play the winner of the remaining quarter-final between Daniil Medvedev and Holger Rune.

Carlos Alcaraz looked back at his best as he swatted aside a swarm of bees and world number six Alexander Zverev to reach the semi-finals at Indian Wells on Thursday (March 14), setting up a clash with the in-form Jannik Sinner.

Carlos Alcaraz looked back at his best as he swatted aside a swarm of bees and world number six Alexander Zverev to reach the semi-finals at Indian Wells on Thursday (March 14), setting up a clash with the in-form Jannik Sinner. The world number two took the interruption to clear the bees from the court in his stride before racing past Zverev 6-3 6-1 in little more than 90 minutes to keep his title defense on track. Zverev did not play badly but Alcaraz's all-court game was just too good, the 20-year-old Spaniard sealing the victory by breaking the German for the fourth time and taking his winning streak in the Californian desert to 10 matches. "It was strange, I've never seen something like that at a tennis match," twice major champion Alcaraz said of the invasion of the bees. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup 2024: ICC to release additional tickets for 13 matches on March 19 "I'm not going to lie, I'm a little bit afraid of the bees. Once the match started again, I managed to stay away from the bees and do the things I needed to do." Italian Sinner earlier continued his perfect start to the season by cruising past Jiri Lehecka 6-3 6-3 to improve his win-loss record this year to 16-0. A windy, cool day did little to slow down the hottest player on the men's tour as Sinner was in control throughout, facing a single break chance the entire contest while his opponent piled up unforced errors. Local hope Tommy Paul also reached the semi-finals with a 6-2 1-6 6-3 win over Casper Ruud. He will play the winner of the remaining quarter-final between Daniil Medvedev and Holger Rune.

Tennis: Carlos Alcaraz overcomes bees and Alexander Zverev to advance to Indian Wells semis

Third seeded Jannik Sinner earned his 17th straight match win Sunday (March 10) with a defeat of 25th-seeded Jan-Lennard Struff while fifth seeded Russian Andrey Rublev was sent packing by Czech 32nd seed Jiri Lehecka.

Italian Sinner needed just 74 minutes to get past German Struff 6-3 6-4 and will next face 16th seed Ben Shelton or 22nd seed Francisco Cerundolo, who meet in Sunday's late night match in the California desert.

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Lehecka, the lowest seeded player on the men's side at 32, converted nine aces to Rublev's one and took advantage of two of his four break chances to win 6-4 6-4 and advance to a Round of 16 meeting with 11th seeded Stefanos Tsitsipas.

Alcaraz moves ahead too

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz booked his spot in the Indian Wells Open last 16 following a straight sets victory against Canadian 31st seed Felix Auger-Aliassime on Sunday (March 10).

The Spanish second seed eased to a 6-2 6-3 win and will next meet Hungary’s Florian Marozsan, who dispatched Brazilian qualifier Thiago Seyboth Wild 6-2 6-2. Alcaraz suffered a surprise 6-3 7-6(4) loss to Marozsan in their only previous meeting last year in Rome on clay.

Australian 10th seed Alex de Minaur defeated 20th seed Alexander Bublik of Kazakhstan 7-5 6-0, while Greece’s Stefanos Tsitsipas, seeded 11th, got the better of American hopeful and 18th seed Frances Tiafoe 6-3 6-3.

Third seeded Jannik Sinner earned his 17th straight match win Sunday (March 10) with a defeat of 25th-seeded Jan-Lennard Struff while fifth seeded Russian Andrey Rublev was sent packing by Czech 32nd seed Jiri Lehecka.

Third seeded Jannik Sinner earned his 17th straight match win Sunday (March 10) with a defeat of 25th-seeded Jan-Lennard Struff while fifth seeded Russian Andrey Rublev was sent packing by Czech 32nd seed Jiri Lehecka. Italian Sinner needed just 74 minutes to get past German Struff 6-3 6-4 and will next face 16th seed Ben Shelton or 22nd seed Francisco Cerundolo, who meet in Sunday's late night match in the California desert. Also Read: Premier League: Liverpool-Manchester City play draw at Anfield as Arsenal remain on top Lehecka, the lowest seeded player on the men's side at 32, converted nine aces to Rublev's one and took advantage of two of his four break chances to win 6-4 6-4 and advance to a Round of 16 meeting with 11th seeded Stefanos Tsitsipas. Alcaraz moves ahead too Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz booked his spot in the Indian Wells Open last 16 following a straight sets victory against Canadian 31st seed Felix Auger-Aliassime on Sunday (March 10). The Spanish second seed eased to a 6-2 6-3 win and will next meet Hungary’s Florian Marozsan, who dispatched Brazilian qualifier Thiago Seyboth Wild 6-2 6-2. Alcaraz suffered a surprise 6-3 7-6(4) loss to Marozsan in their only previous meeting last year in Rome on clay. Australian 10th seed Alex de Minaur defeated 20th seed Alexander Bublik of Kazakhstan 7-5 6-0, while Greece’s Stefanos Tsitsipas, seeded 11th, got the better of American hopeful and 18th seed Frances Tiafoe 6-3 6-3.

Tennis: Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz move forward in Indian Wells; Rublev out

Carlos Alcaraz and Rafael Nadal warmed up for the ATP Indian Wells Masters on Sunday with a lively exhibition in Las Vegas won by Alcaraz 3-6, 6-4, 14-12.

The contest at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, carried live by streaming service Netflix, was a chance for both Spanish stars to test their fitness.

Nadal, a 22-time Grand Slam champion, missed most of last year with a hip injury sustained at the Australian Open.

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He made his comeback at the Brisbane International in January before a small muscle tear forced the 37-year-old to pull out of this season's first Grand Slam in Melbourne.

He shelved plans to return to action at the Qatar Open in February, saying he was "not ready to compete."

He told interviewer Mary Joe Fernandez he felt "much better than expected" after pocketing the first set against Alcaraz.

And he had enough in the tank to save five match points in the match tiebreak before Alcaraz finally finished it out.

It was an encouraging performance before Indian Wells, where Nadal is a three-time champion. In his most recent Indian Wells appearance, Nadal finished runner-up to American Taylor Fritz in 2022.

The Spanish veteran will play his first-round match at Indian Wells on Thursday. Alcaraz, who will be seeded in the California desert, will have a first-round bye.

Alcaraz, ranked second in the world, will be trying to become the first man to successfully defend his Indian Wells title since Novak Djokovic's three-peat from 2014-2016.

But the 20-year-old Spaniard has had his own injury concerns of late, retiring from his first-round match at the Rio Open less than two weeks ago after he rolled his right ankle on just the second point of the match against Thiago Monteiro.

It was another setback for the two-time Grand Slam winner, who fell to Alexander Zverev in the Australian Open quarter-finals and lost to Chilean Nicolas Jarry in the semi-finals at Buenos Aires.

Alcaraz hasn't won an ATP title since his stunning Wimbledon triumph over Djokovic last July.

Carlos Alcaraz and Rafael Nadal warmed up for the ATP Indian Wells Masters on Sunday with a lively exhibition in Las Vegas won by Alcaraz 3-6, 6-4, 14-12. The contest at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, carried live by streaming service Netflix, was a chance for both Spanish stars to test their fitness.

Carlos Alcaraz and Rafael Nadal warmed up for the ATP Indian Wells Masters on Sunday with a lively exhibition in Las Vegas won by Alcaraz 3-6, 6-4, 14-12. The contest at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, carried live by streaming service Netflix, was a chance for both Spanish stars to test their fitness. Nadal, a 22-time Grand Slam champion, missed most of last year with a hip injury sustained at the Australian Open. Also Read: 'I'm definitely giving up...,' Pat Cummins shares potential timeline of quitting Australia captaincy He made his comeback at the Brisbane International in January before a small muscle tear forced the 37-year-old to pull out of this season's first Grand Slam in Melbourne. He shelved plans to return to action at the Qatar Open in February, saying he was "not ready to compete." He told interviewer Mary Joe Fernandez he felt "much better than expected" after pocketing the first set against Alcaraz. And he had enough in the tank to save five match points in the match tiebreak before Alcaraz finally finished it out. It was an encouraging performance before Indian Wells, where Nadal is a three-time champion. In his most recent Indian Wells appearance, Nadal finished runner-up to American Taylor Fritz in 2022. The Spanish veteran will play his first-round match at Indian Wells on Thursday. Alcaraz, who will be seeded in the California desert, will have a first-round bye. Alcaraz, ranked second in the world, will be trying to become the first man to successfully defend his Indian Wells title since Novak Djokovic's three-peat from 2014-2016. But the 20-year-old Spaniard has had his own injury concerns of late, retiring from his first-round match at the Rio Open less than two weeks ago after he rolled his right ankle on just the second point of the match against Thiago Monteiro. It was another setback for the two-time Grand Slam winner, who fell to Alexander Zverev in the Australian Open quarter-finals and lost to Chilean Nicolas Jarry in the semi-finals at Buenos Aires. Alcaraz hasn't won an ATP title since his stunning Wimbledon triumph over Djokovic last July.

Tennis: Carlos Alcaraz outlasts Rafael Nadal in Netflix exhibition match

World number two Carlos Alcaraz retired from his first-round match Tuesday at the ATP Rio Open after rolling his right ankle on just the second point of the contest against Thiago Monteiro.

The Spanish star took a medical timeout, had the ankle taped and won the first game but after dropping his serve in the second game he called it quits, in another setback to a so-far disappointing 2024 campaign.

Shortly after the match Alcaraz told reporters the decision to withdraw was a "precaution" and that the physiotherapists who treated him had indicated the injury "is not serious."

"I spoke with the physiotherapist on the court and we decided, together, that I would continue to see if it improved. It didn't, so we preferred to be careful and withdraw as a precaution," Alcaraz said, adding that he would have further tests on Wednesday.

The two-time Grand Slam winner's tough start to 2024 included a four-set defeat by Alexander Zverev in the Australian Open quarter-finals.

Last Saturday he fell to 21st-ranked Chilean Nicolas Jarry in the semi-finals at Buenos Aires, and hasn't won an ATP title since his stunning Wimbledon triumph over Novak Djokovic last July.

Hopes that he could start turning things around in Rio -- where he lifted the trophy in 2022 and finished runner-up to Britain's Cameron Norrie last year -- were quickly dashed.

He and 117th-ranked Brazilian Monteiro were two points into the match when Alcaraz's right foot stuck in the red clay surface at Jockey Club Brasileiro, where rain had delayed the start of play for three hours.

Four of the day's tennis matches were postponed until Wednesday and the first players to take the court on Tuesday played in misty conditions.

<h2>Those things happen</h2>

That had cleared by the time Alcaraz and Monteiro squared off and Alcaraz said court conditions were not to blame.

"Those things happen, even more so on clay," Alcaraz said.

"It wasn't a problem with the court, I got hurt in a change of direction and that happens on this type of surface," added the Spaniard, who was slow to rise after taking a hard fall, limping to his chair and putting a towel over his face before the trainer arrived.

Alcaraz's coach Juan Carlos Ferrero looked on with concern from the stands as Alcaraz, with a grimace and a slight limp, returned to action and won the opening game.

But after dropping his serve in the second he opted not to continue.

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"It's really sad to win in this way, because I know how hard every player works to be ready for a tournament of this magnitude," &nbsp;Monteiro said.

"I just wish him a speedy recovery, that it's nothing serious or that it won't affect his season," added the 29-year-old left-hander, who improved to 2-0 against Alcaraz, whom he beat in the round of 16 of the Melbourne-1 in 2021.

The injury comes with Italy's Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner closing in on Alcaraz's world number two ranking.

Alcaraz leads Sinner -- who won the Rotterdam title on Sunday -- by just 535 points and has 1,000 points to defend next month at the prestigious hardcourt tournament in Indian Wells, California.

World number two Carlos Alcaraz retired from his first-round match Tuesday at the ATP Rio Open after rolling his right ankle on just the second point of the contest against Thiago Monteiro.

World number two Carlos Alcaraz retired from his first-round match Tuesday at the ATP Rio Open after rolling his right ankle on just the second point of the contest against Thiago Monteiro. The Spanish star took a medical timeout, had the ankle taped and won the first game but after dropping his serve in the second game he called it quits, in another setback to a so-far disappointing 2024 campaign. Shortly after the match Alcaraz told reporters the decision to withdraw was a "precaution" and that the physiotherapists who treated him had indicated the injury "is not serious." "I spoke with the physiotherapist on the court and we decided, together, that I would continue to see if it improved. It didn't, so we preferred to be careful and withdraw as a precaution," Alcaraz said, adding that he would have further tests on Wednesday. The two-time Grand Slam winner's tough start to 2024 included a four-set defeat by Alexander Zverev in the Australian Open quarter-finals. Last Saturday he fell to 21st-ranked Chilean Nicolas Jarry in the semi-finals at Buenos Aires, and hasn't won an ATP title since his stunning Wimbledon triumph over Novak Djokovic last July. Hopes that he could start turning things around in Rio -- where he lifted the trophy in 2022 and finished runner-up to Britain's Cameron Norrie last year -- were quickly dashed. He and 117th-ranked Brazilian Monteiro were two points into the match when Alcaraz's right foot stuck in the red clay surface at Jockey Club Brasileiro, where rain had delayed the start of play for three hours. Four of the day's tennis matches were postponed until Wednesday and the first players to take the court on Tuesday played in misty conditions. Those things happen That had cleared by the time Alcaraz and Monteiro squared off and Alcaraz said court conditions were not to blame. "Those things happen, even more so on clay," Alcaraz said. "It wasn't a problem with the court, I got hurt in a change of direction and that happens on this type of surface," added the Spaniard, who was slow to rise after taking a hard fall, limping to his chair and putting a towel over his face before the trainer arrived. Alcaraz's coach Juan Carlos Ferrero looked on with concern from the stands as Alcaraz, with a grimace and a slight limp, returned to action and won the opening game. But after dropping his serve in the second he opted not to continue. ALSO READ | IND vs ENG: Unfit KL Rahul out of fourth Test; Jasprit Bumrah rested, BCCI confirms "It's really sad to win in this way, because I know how hard every player works to be ready for a tournament of this magnitude," Monteiro said. "I just wish him a speedy recovery, that it's nothing serious or that it won't affect his season," added the 29-year-old left-hander, who improved to 2-0 against Alcaraz, whom he beat in the round of 16 of the Melbourne-1 in 2021. The injury comes with Italy's Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner closing in on Alcaraz's world number two ranking. Alcaraz leads Sinner -- who won the Rotterdam title on Sunday -- by just 535 points and has 1,000 points to defend next month at the prestigious hardcourt tournament in Indian Wells, California.

Tennis: Ankle injury forces Carlos Alcaraz out in first round of ATP Rio Open

World number two Carlos Alcaraz slumped to a shock straight sets loss to Chile's Nicolas Jarry in the semi-finals of the ATP Buenos Aires tournament on Saturday.

Defending champion Alcaraz, playing in his first tournament since losing in the Australian Open quarter-finals, was beaten 7-6 (7/2), 6-3 by his 28-year-old opponent.

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Two-time Grand Slam champion Alcaraz had been hoping to reach his first final since losing to Novak Djokovic in the Cincinnati Masters in August and clinch a first title since Wimbledon in July.

Jarry, ranked 21 in the world, claimed his first win over Alcaraz in three meetings, wrapping up victory on a second match point after almost two hours on court.

"Third time lucky," Jarry said of his first win over Alcaraz. "Carlos is one of the best players so it means a lot, especially after the battles I've had a couple of days ago. It's been very tough physically, so I'm very happy to be able to come back.

"I didn't start very well and couldn't win points on his serve, but I came back little by little."

The Chilean didn't face a break point in the opening set and after the pair exchanged breaks in the first two games of the second set, Jarry claimed the decisive break in the eighth game.

Jarry will face Argentine wildcard Facundo Diaz Acosta, ranked 87, in Sunday's final of the clay-court tournament.

World number two Carlos Alcaraz slumped to a shock straight sets loss to Chile's Nicolas Jarry in the semi-finals of the ATP Buenos Aires tournament on Saturday.

World number two Carlos Alcaraz slumped to a shock straight sets loss to Chile's Nicolas Jarry in the semi-finals of the ATP Buenos Aires tournament on Saturday. Defending champion Alcaraz, playing in his first tournament since losing in the Australian Open quarter-finals, was beaten 7-6 (7/2), 6-3 by his 28-year-old opponent. Also Read: Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti 'avoids talking' about Kylian Mbappe joining LaLiga side next season Two-time Grand Slam champion Alcaraz had been hoping to reach his first final since losing to Novak Djokovic in the Cincinnati Masters in August and clinch a first title since Wimbledon in July. Jarry, ranked 21 in the world, claimed his first win over Alcaraz in three meetings, wrapping up victory on a second match point after almost two hours on court. "Third time lucky," Jarry said of his first win over Alcaraz. "Carlos is one of the best players so it means a lot, especially after the battles I've had a couple of days ago. It's been very tough physically, so I'm very happy to be able to come back. "I didn't start very well and couldn't win points on his serve, but I came back little by little." The Chilean didn't face a break point in the opening set and after the pair exchanged breaks in the first two games of the second set, Jarry claimed the decisive break in the eighth game. Jarry will face Argentine wildcard Facundo Diaz Acosta, ranked 87, in Sunday's final of the clay-court tournament.

World number 2 Carlos Alcaraz, in a shock defeat, loses in straight sets in ATP Buenos Aires tournament semis

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