2024-06-18 16:03:51
Carlos Alcaraz continued his profession on British grass, defeating Argentina’s Francisco Cerundolo in straight units to kick off the Queen’s title protection.
The 21-year-old Spaniard gained 6-1 7-5 in his first grass-court match since successful Wimbledon final yr.
Alcaraz gained his third profession main title on the clay of the French Open earlier this month earlier than returning to the court docket the place he has performed the least typically.
At first, it seemed like a cushty transition, however he struggled within the first spherical towards No. 26 Cerundolo.
Nevertheless, the world quantity two recovered to win his twelfth consecutive match on grass.
“It doesn’t matter what recreation I play or what I obtain, I am all the time studying,” Alcaraz mentioned.
“I must discover ways to transfer higher and play higher each time I step on the grass court docket.”
Alcaraz dropped solely 14 factors in a one-sided first set, however fought once more with a 5-2 break within the second set.
Cerundolo did not serve at 5-3 and scored three straight set factors at 5-4.
However two of his backhands discovered the online, and Alcaraz saved the second with an ace on both facet, bringing the Spaniard to 5-5.
This proved pricey as Alcaraz broke and served for love at 6-5.
“The primary recreation of each recreation shouldn’t be simple, nevertheless it’s even more durable on grass,” Alcaraz mentioned.
“Whenever you begin the grass court docket season you need a good end result and you must cope with the expectations you have got on your self.
“It was check for Francisco. I am very pleased with what I am doing and hope to proceed.”
Alcaraz will face Britain’s new primary Jack Draper or Argentina’s Mariano Navone within the second spherical.
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