New York, September 05 (H.S.): Defending champion and Spanish star Carlos Alcaraz advanced to the fourth round of the US Open after defeating China’s Wu Yibing 6-3, 6-4, 6-1 in straight sets on Friday.

The victory further strengthened Alcaraz’s bid for a third US Open title in Flushing Meadows.

With the win, Alcaraz extended his winning streak in Grand Slam matches to 17. He won the US Open title last year and also captured the Australian Open crown in February this year. His Australian Open triumph made him the youngest male player to complete a career Grand Slam.

Alcaraz arrived in New York after spending nearly five months away from competitive tennis due to a wrist injury, but he has appeared to be finding greater rhythm with each successive round. Wu briefly reduced the early pressure in the opening set by breaking back after Alcaraz had established an advantage, but the Spaniard soon regained control of the contest.

World No. 113 Wu Yibing was aiming to become the first Chinese male player in the Open Era to reach the last 16 of a Grand Slam. He battled strongly for stretches at Arthur Ashe Stadium, but Alcaraz once again asserted his dominance with his speed, precision and powerful shot-making.

Alcaraz’s movement around the court and consistently accurate strokes were particularly impressive in the second set. Wu refused to give up and repeatedly tested the Spaniard with his resistance. At one point, Alcaraz loudly expressed his frustration, but he responded with a strong run of play and doubled his advantage.

In the third set, Alcaraz let out a powerful roar after breaking serve to move 3-1 ahead. He then gave Wu no opportunity to mount another comeback, closing out the set 6-1 to seal the match.

Alcaraz will face 20th-seeded American Tommy Paul in the fourth round.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar