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Tennis

Alcaraz beats Cerundolo in straight sets to open Shanghai campaign

The world No. 3 wins 6–3, 6–3 in 66 minutes and advances to the third round.

By TSP Staff
Carlos Alcaraz gives two thumbs up at a tennis tournament.
Carlos Alcaraz in the photograph accompanying Sky Sports’ Shanghai report. · Credit: Sky Sports (source)

Carlos Alcaraz opened his Shanghai Masters campaign with a 6–3, 6–3 victory over Juan Manuel Cerundolo on Saturday, reaching the third round in 66 minutes.

The world No. 3 hit 24 winners and won 13 of his 20 points at the net, according to the ATP Tour’s match report. The result extended his winning streak to seven matches after his title defence in Tokyo.

Alcaraz increased his movement toward the net as he adjusted to Shanghai’s fast conditions, using a more aggressive approach to take time away from Cerundolo.

The win continues his progress after a wrist injury kept him out for four and a half months this season. He returned at the US Open, where he reached the quarterfinals before losing to Ben Shelton.

Alcaraz is scheduled to face Zizou Bergs next. A meeting with defending champion Valentin Vacherot could follow in the fourth round if both advance.

Shanghai remains one of the Masters 1000 tournaments Alcaraz has yet to win. Saturday’s result keeps that opportunity open without requiring a long opening match.