Carlos Alcaraz faced an unexpectedly strong challenge from Australian qualifier Li Tu at the US Open before securing a 6-2, 4-6, 6-3, 6-1 victory.
Alcaraz, a four-time Grand Slam champion, got off to a dominant start, winning the first set with ease. However, the match took an unexpected turn when Tu, a 28-year-old Adelaide native, began to find his rhythm, capitalizing on Alcaraz’s errors to take the second set 6-4.
Tu, who returned to professional tennis after a six-year hiatus to earn a degree and start a tennis academy, showcased his resilience and talent, making the most of his debut on the prestigious Arthur Ashe Stadium court. Despite his inexperience at this level, Tu impressed the crowd with his shot-making and determination, particularly in the second set where he stunned Alcaraz with a series of brilliant plays, including a well-executed one-handed backhand down the line to break serve.
Alcaraz, who has had an impressive 2023 season with victories at the French Open and Wimbledon, showed his championship mentality by regaining his composure in the third set. He broke Tu’s serve to take a 4-3 lead and never looked back, ultimately closing out the match with his eighth ace. The Spaniard’s powerful groundstrokes and tactical adjustments proved too much for Tu to handle in the final two sets.
At the end of the match, Alcaraz praised Tu’s performance, admitting that he had been taken by surprise by the Australian’s level of play. “He started the match a little nervous but after the first set, he grew up, he started to play great tennis,” Alcaraz said during his on-court interview. Alcaraz also expressed confidence that Tu, who earned his spot in the main draw through three qualifying wins, will be a player to watch in the future.
The match, played under hot and humid conditions, was a test of endurance for both players. Alcaraz, who had suffered a right ankle injury during a practice session earlier in the week, showed no signs of being hindered by the setback. He acknowledged the support of the fans at Arthur Ashe Stadium, describing the atmosphere as “electric” and expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to play in front of such an enthusiastic crowd.
Getting the W in the Big Apple 🍎 @carlosalcaraz fends off Tu 6-2 4-6 6-3 6-1.@usopen | #USOpen pic.twitter.com/OJLmncoeJo
— ATP Tour (@atptour) August 28, 2024
Alcaraz’s victory sets up a second-round encounter with Dutch player Botic van de Zandschulp. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on the young Spaniard as he continues his quest for a second US Open title, following his triumph at the event in 2022. Despite his recent disappointment at the Paris Olympics and a surprising loss to Gael Monfils at the Cincinnati Open, Alcaraz remains one of the top contenders for the title in New York.
Alcaraz will need to maintain his focus and consistency to navigate the challenging field at this year’s US Open. His ability to overcome adversity, as demonstrated in his match against Tu, will be crucial as he aims to add another Grand Slam title to his already impressive resume. With his powerful game and mental toughness, Alcaraz is well-positioned to make a deep run in the tournament, but he will need to bring his best to each match as the competition intensifies.
Alcaraz’s first-round match served as a reminder that no opponent can be underestimated, especially at a Grand Slam event. Tu’s performance, despite the loss, was a testament to his potential and a clear indication that he belongs at this level. For Alcaraz, the victory was a positive step forward, and he will be looking to build on this momentum as he continues his campaign at the US Open.
