Carlos Alcaraz downed Wu Yibing to maintain US Open return to 4th round

Carlos Alcaraz had to withstand a spirited challenge from Wu Yibing before eventually pulling away to book his place in the fourth round of the US Open on Friday. The defending champion overcame some nervous moments to beat the big Chinese star 6-3, 6-4, 6-1. It was another significant step in the return of Alcarazwith the Spaniard playing his first tournament since April after recovering from a right wrist injury. The win also extended his unbeaten streak in Grand Slam tournaments to a career-best 17 matches.

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The opening two sets were much more competitive than the final score suggested. Alcaraz twice saw the break advantage disappear as both players traded heavy shots from the baseline. Wu was particularly aggressive with the forehand, repeatedly trying to dictate moves and force Alcaraz onto the back foot.

Even without playing his most polished tennis, the 23-year-old was constantly looking for ways to put Wu under pressure. His work in the return games proved crucial, allowing him to regain control at key moments and build a two-set cushion. Alcaraz was visibly frustrated at times, turned to his box at times, but kept his composure when it mattered most.

Wu arrived in New York at No. 113 in the ATP rankings, a remarkable turnaround considering he had recently fallen outside the top 400 in June 2025 after a string of injury setbacks. The 26-year-old, who made history as the first Chinese to win an ATP singles title in 2023, continued to take risks rather than withdraw from the competition.

He had his biggest opportunity right at the beginning of the third set, when he won two break points in a row. Alcaraz refused to let the match swing in Wu’s favor, saving both chances before taking control of the set. From there, the third seed cruised to victory, dropping just one game in the final set.

Alcaraz has now won 17 matches in a row at Grand Slam events. His streak includes a triumph at the Australian Open earlier this year, where he became the youngest man to complete a career Grand Slam at the age of 22. In the absence of injury, he missed both the French Open and Wimbledon.

The Spaniard’s title defense will continue against Tommy Paul. The American booked his place in the fourth round after seeing off Alexander Bublik 6-4, 3-6, 6-7(4), 6-1, 6-3 in a five-set thriller at the Louis Armstrong Stadium, sending home fans into celebration.

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Published on:

05 Sep 2026 02:37 IST