Alcaraz wins US Open first-round match after injury layoff

In the first round of the US Open, Carlos Alcaraz claimed a convincing victory over Roman Safiullin, 6-4, 6-4, 6-4. Alcaraz returned to New York after a four-month absence due to a wrist injury, and displayed a game plan of controlled aggression during his match. Although Safiullin kept Alcaraz in check, he never posed a significant threat to the Spaniard.

The match turned in Alcaraz's favor when he broke Safiullin's serve with a powerful forehand, a weapon Alcaraz often relied on to dominate lengthy rallies. Safiullin managed to break Alcaraz's serve early in the second set but Alcaraz quickly rebounded, breaking again in the third set. Alcaraz expressed satisfaction with his mental strength in overcoming self-doubt, and confirmed that he feels better each day.