In an eagerly anticipated U.S. Open semi-final, Carlos Alcaraz is set to face Daniil Medvedev, featuring the last two Flushing Meadows champions. The world number one Medvedev’s convincing 6-3, 6-2, 6-4 victory over a weary Alexander Zverev on Wednesday served as the foundation for this match.
Zverev’s readiness to take on the energetic Alcaraz was questioned after he played the longest match of the tournament on Monday—a gruelling near-five-hour, five-set battle against Jannik Sinner, endured under punishing conditions.
While the 2020 U.S. Open finalist displayed determination, his energy reserve depleted rapidly. The 12th seed found it challenging to keep up with Alcaraz, who, as the defending champion, stepped on the gas to secure a straightforward win.
Although Alcaraz had only four break-point opportunities throughout the contest, he capitalised on each one against a player who was starting to regain top form after an ankle injury last year.
Reflecting on his victory, Alcaraz acknowledged Zverev’s journey to recovery: “I remember the last time I played him in Madrid. I was sad about it because we’ve played big matches. Seeing him in the quarters of a Grand Slam again playing at his best, I’m so happy for him. He was struggling a lot, working really hard to come back at his best, and finally, we all see him showing his best tennis.”
Medvedev secured his place in the semi-finals by defeating the eighth seed, Andrey Rublev, in stifling heat with a score of 6-4, 6-3, 6-4. However, by the time Alcaraz and Zverev took the court for the late match, much of the sting had been taken out of the brutal conditions.
Zverev, with his powerful serve finding its mark, initially kept pace with Alcaraz. However, Alcaraz seized the opportunity to break in the first set, taking a 5-3 lead and subsequently holding serve to gain control of the match.
As Zverev’s resistance waned, Alcaraz secured an early break in the second set, captivating the crowd with remarkable shot-making and racquet twirls. Another break in the set extended Alcaraz’s lead to 5-2 before a hold secured his dominance.
Alcaraz’s performance left him with a wide grin, while Zverev requested a medical time-out and returned with a heavily strapped groin for the third set. Despite his discomfort, Zverev battled on, but Alcaraz ultimately secured another late break and served out for the win.
Speaking about his playing style, Alcaraz stated, “Of course, I’m playing for myself and my team. But I try to make the people enjoy watching tennis, trying to do different shots that probably the crowd are not used to seeing in matches, drop shots, going to the net. I always say ‘put a smile.’ I think people enjoy it as well.”
