In what was a stunning turn of events at the Madrid Open, Carlos Alcaraz, the 20-year-old Spanish sensation, had his hopes of securing a hat-trick of titles dashed by Andrey Rublev. The match, held under the roof of the Manolo Santana Stadium, saw seventh seed Rublev claim a remarkable victory over Alcaraz with a final score of 4-6, 6-3, 6-2. Alcaraz, initially backed by a fervent home crowd that included notable figures like David Villa, Raul, and Luka Modric, found himself outplayed as Rublev strategically utilized aggressive play, striking 30 winners and frequently advancing inside the baseline to unsettle his opponent.
Speaking after his defeat, Alcaraz expressed his determination to continue his preparations for the French Open, despite ongoing issues with his right forearm, by participating in the upcoming tournament in Rome. This resilient attitude signifies Alcaraz’s strong resolve and dedication to his craft, even in the face of adversity.
On the women’s side, the Madrid Open witnessed an enthralling battle between compatriots Elena Rybakina and Yulia Putintseva. Rybakina, the fourth seed, showcased her resilience as she rallied from a set down to claim victory in a thrilling two-hour and 48-minute match. Putintseva’s near-flawless display in the opening set posed a significant challenge, but Rybakina’s ability to regain her composure and save two match points showcased her mental fortitude and determination.
In a disappointing development, Jannik Sinner was forced to withdraw from the tournament due to a right-hip injury, depriving tennis enthusiasts of a highly anticipated quarter-final match against Felix Auger-Aliassime. As a result, Auger-Aliassime advanced to the semi-finals with an automatic bye. This turn of events underscored the physical demands and challenges that players face in the competitive world of professional tennis.
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