Alcaraz, Sabalenka ease into US Open third round; American players shine

Carlos Alcaraz and Aryna Sabalenka advanced to the third round of the US Open on Wednesday, with Alcaraz overcoming a slow start to defeat Jaime Faria and Sabalenka dominating Polina Iatcenko. Organizers were able to clear a backlog of rain-delayed matches. Several American players also progressed, including Ben Shelton, Jessica Pegula, Emma Navarro, and Frances Tiafoe. Former champion Daniil Medvedev also secured his spot in the next round, despite a brief interruption from birds on the court. Alcaraz expressed satisfaction with playing a four-set match to test his physical condition after an injury. Sabalenka, meanwhile, reacted strongly to a question about her pre-tournament activities.

Carlos Alcaraz advanced to the third round of the US Open after a comeback victory against Jaime Faria. Alcaraz dropped the first set but rallied to win the match 4-6, 6-0, 6-3, 6-2. The defending champion, who recently returned from a four-month wrist injury layoff, viewed the four-set match as beneficial for his physical conditioning. Despite a slow start, Alcaraz regained his form, winning eight consecutive games at one point. He expressed confidence in his game, stating he feels no pain and is hitting his forehand without restriction. Alcaraz, a two-time US Open champion, is on a 16-match winning streak in Grand Slam tournaments.