Second-seeded Carlos Alcaraz of Spain showcased resilience and skill to overcome Nicolas Jarry of Chile, winning 7-5, 6-1 to secure his place in the third round of the Paris Masters on Tuesday.
The 21-year-old Spaniard faced a formidable challenge from Jarry’s powerful forehand. Alcaraz was broken in the ninth game, allowing Jarry to level at 5-5. However, Jarry’s double fault in the following service game handed Alcaraz the first set.
“It was a little bit complicated, really happy to get through the first set,” Alcaraz reflected. “I have to get used to the speed of the court. It’s really fast for me.”
In the second set, Alcaraz saved a break point with an ace in the third game and broke Jarry for a 4-1 lead with a precise forehand winner. Serving for the match, he fended off another break point with an ace and sealed victory when Jarry’s backhand clipped the net and sailed out.
“He’s a really dangerous player on these courts,” Alcaraz noted. “I’m super happy to win here. It’s been a great year so far.”
In contrast, seventh-seeded Casper Ruud of Norway faced a surprising defeat. The three-time Grand Slam runner-up started strong but ultimately lost 7-6 (3), 3-6, 6-4 to Australia’s Jordan Thompson.
Earlier, sixth-seeded Andrey Rublev of Russia experienced a frustrating day on the court, impacting his hopes of qualifying for the ATP Finals. Rublev fell 7-6 (6), 7-6 (5) to Argentina’s Francisco Cerundolo. Amidst his struggle, Rublev vented his frustration by smashing his racket against his knee multiple times, causing it to bleed.
In a withdrawal that shook the tournament, top-seeded Jannik Sinner of Italy pulled out due to illness.
“I’m very disappointed to tell you that I am not able to play here at this tournament. I came here very early to prepare and then I felt sick,” Sinner announced in a video message. “I have a virus at the moment, which will pass in the next two or three days. Body-wise, I am not ready to compete.”
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
