Alcaraz eases past Safiullin in US Open title defence after injury layoff

NEW YORK, Sept 1 — Carlos Alcaraz made a strong start to his US Open title defence on Monday, defeating Russia’s Roman Safiullin in straight sets after a long injury layoff. The Spaniard admitted to feeling "really really nervous" before his first round match at Arthur Ashe stadium but quickly regained his composure and prevailed 6-4, 6-4, 6-4.

Alcaraz expressed his excitement about being back in New York, where he previously won his first of seven Grand Slam titles. He mentioned missing the crowd, energy, competition, and everything about the event. Roman Safiullin, who had previously beaten Alcaraz, kept up a strong fight throughout the three sets but ultimately found himself unable to challenge the Spaniard.

The match saw Alcaraz break twice in the second set and three times in the third, establishing control over the rallies with his powerful forehand and occasional serve and volley plays. Alcaraz described the experience as both "difficult" and "beautiful", revealing how it brought back memories of match day. The injury that forced Alcaraz to withdraw from the Cincinnati warmup event and restrain him from competing at the French Open and Wimbledon did not hinder his performance on Monday.

He highlighted that his wrist felt "normal" and that he was able to play his usual style. Alcaraz, a two-time US Open champion, is typically considered one of the favorites in the biggest tennis events. However, his prospects appeared uncertain when he withdrew from the warmup event, opting instead to return to a Grand Slam tournament.

The defeat of four-time US Open champion Novak Djokovic in a marathon, five-set match to Argentine Mariano Navone on the previous night added to the excitement surrounding Alcaraz's performance.