NEW YORK — Carlos Alcaraz, the world number two and defending champion, continued his imperious march through the US Open draw on Monday night, dispatching unseeded Frenchman Arthur Rinderknech 7-6(2), 6-3, 6-4 to book his place in the quarter-finals.
The match, played under the closed roof of a rain-soaked Arthur Ashe Stadium, was a masterclass in controlled aggression from the 20-year-old Spaniard. While he faced a stern test in the first set, Alcaraz ultimately showcased the "good rhythm" he and his team have been searching for in the early rounds.
"I think I played a really high level today," Alcaraz said in his post-match press conference. "I think I'm growing up. I feel really comfortable playing in Arthur Ashe. I think the confidence is there. I'm really happy to be able to play the quarter-finals once again here."
A First-Set Battle Sets the Tone
The 6-foot-6 Rinderknech, known for his booming serve and flat groundstrokes, came out swinging with little to lose. He matched Alcaraz blow-for-blow through the first eleven games, holding serve comfortably and forcing the young Spaniard into a tie-break.
It was there that Alcaraz’s class and big-match experience shone through. He elevated his game, cutting down on errors and unleashing his signature power to race through the tie-break 7-2. The shift in momentum was palpable. "Winning that first set was crucial," Alcaraz later admitted.
Alcaraz Shifts Into Top Gear
With the initial resistance broken, Alcaraz began to dictate play with relentless authority. His game is built on a potent combination of weapons that were on full display:
- Blistering Groundstrokes: His forehand, one of the most feared shots in tennis, consistently pushed Rinderknech meters behind the baseline.
- Deceptive Drop Shots: He repeatedly broke the Frenchman's rhythm with perfectly weighted drop shots that died on the hard court.
- Unmatched Court Coverage: His defensive skills turned certain winners for Rinderknech into extended rallies, often won by Alcaraz.
He secured the only break he needed in the second set at 3-1 and never looked back, serving out the set with ease. The third set followed a similar pattern, with Alcaraz breaking early and maintaining his advantage to close out the match in two hours and twenty-two minutes.
By the Numbers: Dominance in Key Areas
The statistics from the match underscore Alcaraz's comprehensive performance. He fired 42 winners to just 28 unforced errors, a positive ratio that highlights his controlled aggression. He was also clinical on break points, converting three of his four opportunities.
Perhaps most impressively, he neutralized Rinderknech's biggest weapon. While the Frenchman hit 15 aces, Alcaraz's elite returning ability meant he created 11 break point chances against a player who had been serving brilliantly all tournament.
Looking Ahead: A Blockbuster Quarter-Final
The victory sets up a mouth-watering quarter-final clash with another young titan of the game, sixth seed Jannik Sinner of Italy. The rivalry between Alcaraz and Sinner is quickly becoming one of the most compelling in tennis, defined by breathtaking shot-making and incredible athleticism.
Their history is already legendary. They met in the quarter-finals of the US Open in 2022, with Alcaraz prevailing in a five-hour, fifteen-minute epic that ended at 2:50 a.m.—the latest finish in tournament history. "It's one of the best matches I've ever played," Alcaraz recalled.
Sinner leads their head-to-head 4-3, but Alcaraz won their most significant encounter in the semifinals of Indian Wells earlier this year. The tennis world is eagerly anticipating another chapter. Alcaraz acknowledged the challenge, stating, "I'm ready for it. It's going to be a really tough match."
The Quest for a Second Title
With Novak Djokovic and Daniil Medvedev also advancing, the path to the title remains daunting. However, Alcaraz is playing with the confidence of a champion who has been here before. Each match has seen him improve his level, a frightening prospect for his opponents.
His coach, Juan Carlos Ferrero, has been pleased with the progression. "The goal is always to be better every day," Ferrero was quoted as saying. "Today, he managed the tough moments well. He found his best tennis when he needed it. That is what champions do."
Conclusion: A Statement Made
Carlos Alcaraz's victory over Arthur Rinderknech was more than just a ticket to the last eight; it was a statement of intent. After navigating tricky early rounds, he has found his "good rhythm" at the perfect time.
The US Open thrives on night session energy and superstar performances. In a wet New York, Alcaraz provided both, delivering a performance that blended power, finesse, and champion's poise. The tournament is heating up, and so is its defending champion.
All eyes now turn to the quarter-finals, where a rematch for the ages against Jannik Sinner awaits. If his current form is any indication, Alcaraz is precisely where he wants to be: playing his best tennis on the sport's biggest stage.