(Inputs from AFP)NEW DELHI: Carlos Alcaraz secured his place in the French Open semifinals after defeating Stefanos Tsitsipas in straight sets (6-3, 7-6 (7/3), 6-4).
The Spaniard's powerful performance echoed his previous year's quarterfinal win against Tsitsipas at Roland Garros .
He said, "It's a really difficult challenge, I'm not going to lie.
I think right now he's the best player in the world, the player who's playing the best tennis right now.
It's going to be a really good challenge, I'm ready for that challenge.
(Inputs from AFP)
NEW DELHI: Carlos Alcaraz secured his place in the French Open semifinals after defeating Stefanos Tsitsipas in straight sets (6-3, 7-6 (7/3), 6-4). This victory sets up a highly anticipated clash with Jannik Sinner , who is poised to become the new world number one .Alcaraz maintained composure throughout the match, showcasing his dominance over Tsitsipas, whom he has now defeated in all six of their encounters. The Spaniard's powerful performance echoed his previous year's quarterfinal win against Tsitsipas at Roland Garros . Despite Tsitsipas's hopes for a different outcome, Alcaraz proved too strong an opponent.This win marks Alcaraz's second consecutive French Open semifinal appearance, providing him with an opportunity to redeem himself after last year's defeat against Novak Djokovic due to cramping. A victory in this tournament would make Alcaraz the youngest player ever to win Grand Slam titles on all three surfaces, adding to his Wimbledon and US Open victories.The upcoming semifinal against Sinner promises to be a thrilling contest. The two players share a balanced head-to-head record at 4-4, with Alcaraz winning their most recent encounter in the Indian Wells semifinals.Alcaraz acknowledges the challenge Sinner poses, recognizing him as the current top player in the world based on recent form. He said, "It's a really difficult challenge, I'm not going to lie. I think right now he's the best player in the world, the player who's playing the best tennis right now.""I'm grateful to have him (Sinner) on the tour, at this level because he pushes me to be my best level... to wake up in the morning to try to get better to try to beat him. It's going to be a really good challenge, I'm ready for that challenge. It's the match that everybody wants to watch. I'm sure he'll show his best tennis, I will as well, so let's see who's going to win," added the Spaniard.The absence of Djokovic, who withdrew due to a knee injury, paves the way for a new men's champion at Roland Garros. The winner of the Alcaraz-Sinner match is expected to be the favourite in the final, facing either Alexander Zverev, Casper Ruud, or Alex de Minaur.Alcaraz expressed disappointment over Djokovic's withdrawal, acknowledging the impact on fans who were deprived of witnessing one of the sport's greatest players.However, his focus remains on the challenge ahead, aiming to deliver his best performance against Sinner and secure a place in the final.
