The 2021 US Open kick-starts its day 3, promising twice as much action. After 2 thoroughly entertaining nights, all eyes turn to the courts of New York yet again as its star-studded lineup prepares for some enthralling outings. Notably, headlining the action tonight was an 18-year-old who’s been on a record-breaking run since early August. Spain’s uprising talent, Carlos Alcaraz, took on Arthur Rinderknech in the round of 64 at the US Open.
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While all eyes were glued to the 2020 Tokyo Olympics 2020, Carlos Alcaraz was busy making history at the Umag Open. He burst onto the scene, winning his first ATP title at Umag, becoming the youngest tour-level champion in more than a decade. Hence, he was running high on confidence coming into the flushing meadows.
Putting his confidence to his best use, the young Spaniard has shaken the record books once again, recording back-to-back victories in New York.
Go on champ
In a thrilling outing, Alcaraz met French veteran Arthur Rinderknech in round 2 of the competition. As David and Goliath locked horns, fans witnessed sparks flying all across the court. Courtesy of an enthralling 4-setter, fans were up on their feet as Alcaraz emerged victorious from the fierce battle.
Progressing into the third round of the tournament, he became the youngest player to achieve this feat since Donald Young, in 2007. Notably, as he also reached the third round of the Roland Garros, earlier this year, he became the youngest player to do so in 2 Grand Slam events, since Novak Djokovic in 2005.
18-year-old @AlcarazCarlos03 defeats Arthur Rinderknech to become youngest player in #USOpen 3R since Donald Young, 18, in 2007.
Alcaraz, who also advanced to @RolandGarros 3R, is youngest player to reach 3R at 2 Grand Slam events since @DjokerNole in 2005 (@Wimbledon, @USOpen).
— ATP Media Info (@ATPMediaInfo) September 1, 2021
In his round 2 clash, Carlos used his youthful exuberance to all his might. He made life difficult for Arthur, making him dance all around the court. Despite his age, he dominated the game head-on and bagged the first set in thrilling style. However, as the Frenchman made a strong comeback in the second set, the crowd had a match on their hands.
Regardless, not bothered by his opponent’s might, Alcaraz continued his fine form and outplayed Arthur, winning back-to-back sets. As the final scoreline read 7-6, 4-6, 6-1, 6-4, Alcaraz cruised into the third round, making history while at it.
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Can Carlos Alcaraz go the distance?
Ever since his remarkable achievement in Umag, Carlos has been at the heart of the action. Closely followed, fans stay on the lookout for yet another enthralling outing from the young Spaniard. Notably, his stellar talent saw fans draw comparisons between him and the legend Rafael Nadal. However, will he keep up to his new profound reputation or sink under pressure?
Carlos is undoubtedly one of the favorite uprising stars in the circuit. However, what remains to see is how far can he go at the US Open. With the likes of Daniil Medvedev, Stefanos Tsitsipas, and Novak Djokovic, can he find a place for himself at the podium? Or will he bow out eventually to one of the giants?
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