AAP Tennis

World No.1 Alcaraz motors into Miami Open third round

By AAP Newswire

Mar 25, 2023

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz has motored into the third round of the Miami Open with a 6-0 6-2 win over Argentine Facundo Bagnis.

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The Spanish top seed, looking to back up his Indian Wells triumph with a Miami title to complete the coveted "Sunshine Double", barely broke a sweat as Bagnis was simply unable to keep pace with the variety in Alcaraz's game.

"It was a perfect start and I feel ready for this tournament," said Alcaraz.

Alcaraz was all business as he whipped through the first set in 24 minutes before Bagnis suddenly showed signs of life when he came back from a break down to level the second set at 2-2.

But the fightback by Bagnis proved shortlived as Alcaraz quickly reasserted his authority as he consolidated a break for a 4-2 lead and never looked back.

Alcaraz, who did not drop a set at Indian Wells, must retain his Miami crown to stay ahead of Serbian Novak Djokovic and hold onto top spot in the rankings.

Djokovic is not participating in the Miami Open because he still can't travel to the United States as he is not vaccinated against COVID-19.

In other early action, Spanish 22nd seed Roberto Bautista Agut fell 6-4 7-6 (7-5) to Finland's Emil Ruusuvuori.

Other winners on the men's side include Andrey Rublev, Taylor Fritz, Jannik Sinner and Denis Shapovalov.

By AAP Newswire

Australian Associated Press