Defending champion Alcaraz faces major US Open test against Tommy Paul, admits he’s still not at his best

NEW YORK, Sept 6 — In a major test for defending champion Carlos Alcaraz, he faced off against 20th-seeded American Tommy Paul in the US Open quarter-final. The Spaniard, making his return from a four-month absence due to a wrist injury, admits he is not yet at his best. However, Alcaraz assures that he is "getting there" with his shot-making and decision-making on the court.

He headlines a day featuring other top contenders like women's two-time defending champion Aryna Sabalenka and third-ranked American Jessica Pegula, who could potentially challenge Sabalenka's world ranking. In another compelling match, Linda Noskova, the surprise Wimbledon champion, takes on Ukrainian Marta Kostyuk, while US hope Frances Tiafoe faces off against former champion Daniil Medvedev.