NEW YORK, September 07 (H.S.): Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz continued his impressive run at the US Open 2026, securing a place in the quarterfinals with a commanding victory over American Tommy Paul on Sunday. The second-seeded Spaniard defeated Paul 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 at Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Alcaraz is seeking to win his second consecutive US Open title at Flushing Meadows. Despite being sidelined for nearly four months due to injury, he has displayed excellent form at the year’s final Grand Slam. With his victory over Tommy Paul, Alcaraz extended his winning streak in Grand Slam matches to 18 consecutive victories.

Speaking to reporters after the win, Alcaraz said, “I am really happy to see where my level is at the moment. Beating Tommy is always a good test, and it shows you the level you are at right now. I am really happy with everything I did today.”

He added, “I was understanding the game really well. I knew what I had to do at every moment and what I had to use on each occasion. Hopefully, I can keep this momentum going.”

Alcaraz faced some pressure from Paul during his third service game, but he responded with a spectacular forehand winner struck at nearly 161 kilometres per hour. The shot drew a standing ovation from the crowd at Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Alcaraz took an early 2-0 lead in the second set. Although the two players exchanged service breaks thereafter, Alcaraz raised his intensity once again and took control of the set.

He faced a tougher challenge towards the end of the third set, but maintained his composure and secured the decisive points to seal the match.

Alcaraz has now reached the quarterfinals at the US Open for the fifth time in six appearances at the tournament. In the last-eight clash, he will face another American, Ben Shelton.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar