World No. 1 Alcaraz is ready for the quarter-finals – he was challenged to a creative football duel

Carlos Alcaraz was 19 years old when he won the US Open last year. Now he is a year older and one step closer to defending this title, something Roger Federer last managed to do in 2008.

Alcaraz, who stunned the sporting world when he beat Novak Djokovic in the Wimbledon final last July, appeared to be enjoying his time on Arthur Ashe Stadium.

“Very satisfied with my contribution”

The Spanish player, ranked number one in the world, was smiling a lot, serving many delicious dishes, and playing relaxed and controlled throughout the match.

– I had power from the first ball to the last. I had a really strong game with no major mistakes. “I am very satisfied with my performance,” he said in the Al-Nassr interview afterwards.

In the third set, opponent Mathieu flashed Arnaldi Alcaraz broke for a 2-1 lead and continued to stand well. Some of the ball duels (like the one in the clip above) were long and innovative.

It can be repeated against the sinner

Alcaraz now faces the quarter-finals of the Grand Slam tournament, where he will face either Alexander Zverev or Jannik Sinner.

During last year’s US Open, Alcaraz faced Sinner, with the Spaniard winning after a marathon match.

– Everyone remembers my last match against Yannick. “The quarter-finals could be great, but let’s see who I’m up against,” says Alcaraz.