Carlos Alcaraz nearly stumbled out of the gate at the US Open. After a rough first set against Portugal’s Jaime Faria, he found his footing and took over the match. Alcaraz dropped the opener but came back to win 4-6, 6-0, 6-3, 6-2, finishing the job in just over two and a half hours at Arthur Ashe Stadium. The 2026 US Open, the tournament’s 146th edition, is being held from August 23 to September 13 at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York.
The match shifted after a tense moment when Alcaraz, frustrated with his serve and trailing, let his team know exactly how he felt. The outburst seemed to sharpen his focus. From there, he won eight games in a row and never looked back.
This turnaround comes at a time when the tournament is wide open. Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic are out, while other contenders have struggled. Alcaraz, the defending champion, arrived in New York after a four-month injury break, but looked sharp and aggressive, much like the player who won here last year. His forehand was back to full power, and his serve hit 210 km/h late in the match, a sign that his confidence and fitness have returned. Before facing Faria, Alcaraz opened his 2026 US Open campaign against Roman Safiullin, winning 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 after a four-and-a-half-month break from competition, information from official match coverage.
Faria, who relies on a big serve and attacking style, pushed Alcaraz early and forced mistakes. But once Alcaraz settled, the match swung his way. Faria had already played a five-setter against Jenson Brooksby in the previous round, which may have left him short on energy. Alcaraz’s ability to adjust and take control under pressure is a big reason he’s now seen as the favorite.
Alcaraz next faces China’s Wu Yibing. The draw could also set up matches against Alexander Bublik or Ben Shelton. It has opened up, and Alcaraz’s form suggests he’s hitting his stride at the right time.
While upsets are always possible, Alcaraz’s performance stands out for its clarity and intent. His frustration quickly gave way to control, showing how he handles pressure on the biggest stage. In a season where other favorites have faltered, Alcaraz’s recovery and renewed aggression put him in a strong position.
Alcaraz’s win is another step in the bracket. He’s shown on court that questions about his wrist and fitness have been answered. If he keeps playing like this, he could defend his title. With the field missing its biggest names, Alcaraz’s ability to take charge is now the standard for winning at this level.
