RismadarVoice Reporters
September 3, 2026
Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz recovered from a slow start to overcome Portugal’s Jaime Faria and avoid an early exit at the US Open.
The Spanish second seed was forced to fight back after losing the opening set, eventually defeating the world number 72 in four sets, 4-6, 6-0, 6-3, 6-2, at Arthur Ashe Stadium.
Faria, playing against one of the tournament favourites, took advantage of Alcaraz’s early struggles to claim the first set. The Spaniard, however, responded strongly by dominating the second set and regained control of the match with his aggressive baseline play and improved consistency.
The victory marked another step in Alcaraz’s return to competitive action after a lengthy absence caused by a wrist injury. The 23-year-old had previously defeated Roman Safiullin in straight sets in the opening round as he began his title defence in New York.
Alcaraz will now face China’s Wu Yibing in the third round as he continues his bid to retain the US Open men’s singles title.
The Spaniard’s comeback campaign has attracted attention after he returned to Grand Slam competition following nearly five months away from singles action due to injury.
