On Friday, Carlos Alcaraz returns to Arthur Ashe Stadium to defend his US Open title. After four and a half months away, the seven-time Grand Slam winner has answered questions about his form with two convincing victories. His next opponent, Yibing Wu, stands between him and a place in the last sixteen, presenting a tougher test than the earlier rounds.
Alcaraz’s comeback has drawn attention. His victories over Roman Safiullin and Jaime Faria have reassured fans and analysts, especially after a stretch of uncertainty. His quick adjustment to hard courts, along with his performance against Faria, has been widely discussed. As reported earlier, Alcaraz’s aggressive style and improved fitness have put him among the favorites to defend his title. He entered the tournament as the reigning US Open 2025 champion, seeded No. 2 and ranked No. 3 in the live ATP rankings; Wu was ranked around No. 113.
Friday’s match will be a demanding third-round test. Wu, 26 and ranked 113th, has played Alcaraz only once before, at the 2024 Shanghai tournament, where Alcaraz won. The stakes are higher this time. Alcaraz must show that his return can carry him into another Grand Slam run.
Alcaraz and Wu are scheduled for the second match of the Arthur Ashe day session, after Jessica Pegula faces Leylah Fernandez. Spanish fans will also be watching Dani Mérida, who plays Alex Michelsen later on Court 17. In Spain, the Alcaraz match will not start before 19:00, or 13:00 in New York, and will be broadcast live on Movistar Plus+ (dial 7). ESPN/ESPN+ and European broadcasters will provide live coverage in other regions.
AS will provide digital coverage with live updates and post-match analysis. Basic moments and alerts will also be available through the AS app. Fans can follow every point and see exclusive photos. The coverage will include reactions from the players and on-site correspondent Nacho Albarrán.
This year’s US Open tests Alcaraz’s ability to recover after a long break and gives him a chance to show he remains a top contender. He is favored against Wu, but Grand Slam tennis is unpredictable and expectations are high. If Alcaraz maintains his current form and focus, he will advance and strengthen his position as the player to beat in New York. A loss would quickly change the story of his comeback.
