Carlos Alcaraz opened his US Open 2026 campaign with a clinical 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 victory over Roman Safiullin on Arthur Ashe Stadium to advance to round two.
Carlos Alcaraz Sets the Tone with Early Breakthrough
Carlos Alcaraz launched his US Open 2026 campaign in commanding fashion, securing a crisp 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 straight-sets victory over Roman Safiullin on Arthur Ashe Stadium. Under the bright lights of New York, the Spanish superstar delivered a disciplined and electrifying performance, navigating tricky baseline exchanges to book his place in the second round.
From the opening game, Alcaraz established control from the back of the court. Combining explosive footwork with heavy topspin groundstrokes, he tested Safiullin’s defensive endurance early. A single, decisive break of serve midway through the first set proved sufficient, as the Spaniard protected his service games with remarkable poise to claim the opener 6-4 in just over forty minutes.
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Safiullin Battles Hard as Spaniard Tightens Grip
Safiullin mounted a determined challenge in the second set, utilizing his flat backhand and aggressive first delivery to keep the contest competitive. The unseeded challenger pushed Carlos Alcaraz into several extended rallies, briefly threatening to disrupt the former champion’s rhythm.
However, Carlos Alcaraz’s variety and unmatched court coverage made the difference in the critical moments. Mixing delicate drop shots with booming forehand winners on the run, the world number two converted his second break opportunity at 4-4 before serving out the set comfortably at 6-4, putting the contest firmly in his grasp.
Flawless Finish Books Second-Round Ticket
The third set followed a similar script, with Alcaraz raising his intensity whenever Safiullin attempted to mount a comeback. Dictating play with precise net approaches and sharp serving, the Spaniard pounced on a loose service game from Safiullin in the seventh game to grab the crucial break.
Carlos Alcaraz closed out the match without facing a break point in the final set, firing an emphatic forehand winner on match point to wrap up the contest in two hours and eighteen minutes. The straight-sets win sends a clear signal of intent to the rest of the draw, highlighting the Spaniard’s sharpness and composure as he embarks on his quest for another Grand Slam crown in Flushing Meadows.