Alcaraz advances to US Open quarterfinals

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz advanced to the US Open quarterfinals on Sunday, September 6, 2026, with a commanding straight-sets victory over American Tommy Paul. The second-seeded Spaniard defeated the 20th-seeded Paul 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 on Arthur Ashe Stadium, marking his fifth quarterfinal appearance at Flushing Meadows. The win continues Alcaraz's strong return from a four-to-five-month layoff due to a right wrist injury, an absence that caused him to miss the French Open and Wimbledon. He has dropped only one set through his first four matches in New York, demonstrating impressive form. Alcaraz expressed confidence in his physical condition, stating he felt back to full power. He attributed his consistent performance at the US Open to the tournament's significance for him, noting his frequent deep runs since his 2021 debut. Throughout the match against Paul, Alcaraz applied significant pressure, particularly on return games. He produced 33 winners and was broken only once. A critical moment occurred when Alcaraz served for the match at 5-4 in the third set, facing two break points before rallying to win four consecutive points and secure the victory.