Carlos Alcaraz ends 150-day wait for Grand Slam quarter-final with US Open win

Carlos Alcaraz moved into the US Open quarter-finals for the first time in 150 days after producing a controlled straight-sets victory over Tommy Paul.

The defending champion beat the American 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 to continue his bid for another title at Flushing Meadows and secure a fourth successive win at this year’s tournament.

Alcaraz, one of the leading contenders for the trophy, dealt with the threat posed by world number 21 Paul by imposing his attacking style at the key stages of the match. The Spaniard was particularly effective when opportunities arose, converting important break points and maintaining his advantage once ahead.

The opening set was closely fought, with Paul putting genuine pressure on Alcaraz’s serve. However, Alcaraz remained patient and waited for his chance before taking the first opportunity to break his opponent’s serve. That advantage was enough to give him the set 6-4 and put him within reach of the last eight.

A tournament update highlighted the significance of the opener: “Carlos Alcaraz wins a 12th consecutive set against Paul!He breaks to seal the opener 6-4.pic.twitter.com/vCRKPOEHvF”

Alcaraz continued to apply pressure in the second set and broke Paul’s serve once again. The American responded after Alcaraz made an error with a forehand, briefly restoring parity in the set.

That setback did not disrupt the Spaniard’s rhythm. Alcaraz immediately produced another break, using the quality of his forehand to regain control. He then closed out the second set 6-3 as the crowd inside Arthur Ashe Stadium responded with loud cheers.

Paul attempted to change the momentum in the third set but was unable to make sustained inroads against Alcaraz. The Spaniard claimed an early break and then protected his own service games through to the finish.

He completed the match in three consecutive sets, confirming his place in the quarter-finals and keeping his title defence firmly on course in New York.

The result also strengthens Alcaraz’s belief that he can retain the trophy. The Spaniard has not lost a match at a Grand Slam after winning the opening two sets, a record that remains intact following his victory over Paul.

Alcaraz’s progress represents his return to the quarter-finals of a major tournament for the first time in 150 days. He will now continue his pursuit of another Grand Slam title on the courts of Flushing Meadows, while his unbeaten run at this year’s US Open remains alive.