Carlos Alcaraz made an emphatic return to Grand Slam singles competition as the defending champion opened his US Open title defence with a straight-sets win over Roman Safiullin.
The Spaniard defeated the Russian 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 at Arthur Ashe Stadium in his first singles appearance in more than four months.
Alcaraz had been sidelined since April because of a wrist injury, forcing him to miss both the French Open and Wimbledon. He also sat out the Cincinnati Open, leaving questions about his match fitness heading into New York. Those doubts were quickly eased as the second seed displayed the aggressive shot-making and explosive movement that have become hallmarks of his game.
The 23-year-old strengthened his remarkable US Open record with the victory. He arrived in New York with a 24-3 record at Flushing Meadows, having captured the title in 2022 and 2025. He is now targeting an eighth Grand Slam championship.
Alcaraz had already returned to action in mixed doubles earlier in the tournament, partnering Serena Williams, but his first singles contest provided a far greater test. Safiullin was also a potentially tricky opponent, having defeated Alcaraz on a hard court in 2023.
Reflecting on his comeback, Alcaraz said the past few months had been difficult but described New York as the ideal place to return.
“I couldn’t have decided to come back in a better tournament than here in New York,” he said. “It’s a really special place and a special tournament for me. I missed it. I missed the crowd and the competition.”
ALCARAZ OVERCOMES EARLY PRESSURE
The match began with Safiullin putting immediate pressure on the four-time Grand Slam champion. The Russian created early break opportunities, but Alcaraz relied on his serve and heavy forehand to escape danger.
At 3-3, Alcaraz faced another difficult moment before finally finding his opening. A powerful forehand winner helped him break for a 4-3 lead, giving him control of the first set.
Safiullin had chances to respond, earning two break points in the ninth game, but Alcaraz held his nerve. A backhand error from the Russian handed Alcaraz the opening set 6-4 after around 50 minutes.
The second set initially went Safiullin’s way as he moved 2-0 ahead. Alcaraz, however, responded immediately, levelling the set before breaking again at 4-3 with another decisive forehand winner. He then served out the set to move within one of victory.
The third set once again saw Safiullin threaten early. Alcaraz saved three break points in the second game before turning defence into attack. He broke for a 3-1 advantage and maintained his grip on the match from there.
As the contest progressed, Alcaraz appeared increasingly comfortable, mixing blistering forehands with quick movement, changes of pace and impressive defensive recovery. His ability to absorb pressure before launching counterattacks was particularly encouraging after such a lengthy injury layoff.
The victory extended Alcaraz’s winning streak at the US Open to eight matches and provided an immediate boost to his title hopes. His return also comes at a time when the men’s draw has already suffered a major shock, with Novak Djokovic eliminated in the opening round.
With his first major singles test successfully navigated, Alcaraz has sent an early message that his extended absence may not have diminished his ambitions in New York.
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