Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz avoided the prospect of an early US Open exit by fighting back from a set down against Portugal’s Jaime Faria.
Alcaraz, 23, needed time to find his rhythm in the second-round contest as he continues to make his comeback from a long-term wrist injury.
But the Spanish second seed asserted his authority to win 4-6 6-0 6-3 6-2 against world number 72 Faria in the New York night session.
Alcaraz fighting off two break points in the first game of the second set proved to be pivotal.
“It was a tough match for me. I felt great in the first set, but I didn’t take time and that cost me,” said the seven-time Grand Slam champion.
“After that I tried to be focused, stay calm and think the good things will happen.”
Going into the final major of the season, everyone wondered how Alcaraz would fare in his first tournament since mid-April following an injury to his playing right wrist.
The latest evidence showed the two-time US Open winner is beginning to gather momentum.
Alcaraz said he was playing “normal” in a straight-set win over Russia’s Roman Safiullin in the first round and reiterated after beating Faria that he is not holding back on his forehand.
“I know once I step on the court, I’ve just got to go for it every time. I’ve got to feel normal,” said Alcaraz.
“I have to hit like I was hitting before the injury. I’m feeling great. There is no reason to be afraid and not hitting normal.
Alcaraz
