Carlos Alcaraz, the sensational Spaniard, extended his US Open title defense with a comprehensive straight-sets victory over South Africa’s Lloyd Harris. The 20-year-old Alcaraz was compelled to dig deep in the third set but ultimately closed it out with a score of 6-3, 6-1, 7-6 (7-4) on the hard courts of New York.
This remarkable young athlete, who claimed his first major championship at the same venue a year prior and added a Wimbledon title to his resume this past July, will lock horns with Britain’s Dan Evans in a highly-anticipated third-round clash this Saturday.
On the flip side of fate, John Isner, the seasoned American pro, took a bow and exited the professional tennis stage following a nail-biting five-set loss to fellow American, Michael Mmoh. Isner, aged 38, succumbed to defeat with scores of 3-6, 4-6, 7-6 (7-3), 6-4, 7-6 (10-7) even after Mmoh found himself at match point down during a gripping fifth-set tiebreaker.
Isner wasn’t the only prominent exit. Italian Matteo Berrettini, a former semi-finalist, was forced to retire from his match against France’s Arthur Rinderknech after sustaining a severe ankle twist. Clearly in agony, Berrettini decided to call it quits while trailing 6-4, 5-3.
In other developments, fellow Italian and sixth-seeded Jannik Sinner advanced smoothly with a 6-4, 6-2, 6-4 triumph over compatriot Lorenzo Sonego. Meanwhile, Germany’s 12th-seeded Alexander Zverev, who lost in the 2020 final, set the stage for an intriguing matchup against Andy Murray’s conqueror, Grigor Dimitrov, by defeating Daniel Altmaier in a four-set skirmish.
The Curtain Call for Isner
Isner, a living tennis legend renowned for his part in the longest match in tennis history, fittingly ended his career with another marathon five-setter. Though this match clocked in at just shy of four hours—considerably shorter than his epic Wimbledon bout against Nicolas Mahut—it was a worthy swan song for a man who turned pro in 2007.
Holding an astonishing career record for the most aces served, with a staggering 14,470 to his name, the towering 6-foot-10 ace-machine couldn’t contain his emotions as he sat in his chair post-defeat. Isner expressed heartfelt gratitude for the Flushing Meadows crowd, who gave him a standing ovation as he fought to hold back tears.
“I’ve worked my whole life to play in atmospheres like this. Not every battle is won, but playing in front of this crowd and the support I’ve had makes it special. So, thank you,” Isner articulated.
As a sentimental touch, Isner later teamed up for a doubles match with 30-year-old Jack Sock, who is also retiring post-tournament. Unfortunately, the American duo were outclassed in a tense tie-break by Albano Olivetti and Robert Galloway, wrapping up with a score of 6-2, 3-6, 7-6 (10-3).
Sock, who departs from professional tennis with four ATP singles titles and 17 tour-level doubles trophies, also received a warm adieu from the crowd as the pair exited the court.
And so, while new legends like Alcaraz rise, veterans like Isner and Sock take their final bows. Such is the ever-rotating wheel of professional tennis, always offering fresh thrills and heartfelt goodbyes.
(For live scores, updates, and all that jazz, keep an eye on our Sport News Center website, app, and live radio commentary through BBC Radio 5 Live and 5 Sports Extra.)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about US Open 2023
Who advanced to the next round in the 2023 US Open Men’s singles?
Carlos Alcaraz, the Spanish top seed, advanced to the next round after defeating South Africa’s Lloyd Harris in straight sets. He is set to face Britain’s Dan Evans in the third round on Saturday.
Why is John Isner’s loss in this year’s US Open significant?
John Isner’s loss is particularly noteworthy as it marks the end of his professional tennis career. The American veteran lost a five-set thriller to Michael Mmoh, exiting the stage with a memorable farewell.
What happened to Italian Matteo Berrettini in his match?
Matteo Berrettini was forced to retire from his match against France’s Arthur Rinderknech due to a badly twisted ankle. He was trailing 6-4, 5-3 when he decided he could not continue.
Who are the other notable players to watch in the 2023 US Open?
Jannik Sinner, the sixth seed from Italy, advanced with a win over Lorenzo Sonego. Alexander Zverev, the German 12th seed and 2020 finalist, also moved ahead and is set for an interesting matchup against Grigor Dimitrov.
How did John Isner comment on his retirement?
Isner was visibly emotional and mentioned that he has worked his whole life to play in atmospheres like the one at Flushing Meadows. He expressed gratitude for the crowd support and found the experience special despite the loss.
What’s the next match-up for Carlos Alcaraz?
Carlos Alcaraz is set to face Britain’s Dan Evans in a highly anticipated third-round match this coming Saturday.
Did any other player announce retirement during this tournament?
Yes, alongside John Isner, Jack Sock also announced that he would be retiring after this tournament. He and Isner played a men’s doubles match as one of their final professional appearances.
More about US Open 2023
- Carlos Alcaraz’s Career Highlights
- John Isner’s Unforgettable Moments
- 2023 US Open Official Site
- Matteo Berrettini Player Profile
- A Look Back at Jannik Sinner’s Ascent
- Alexander Zverev’s Tournament Performance
- BBC Sport Tennis Coverage
- Jack Sock’s Career in Review
- US Open 2023 Live Scores and Updates
1 comment
Wow, can’t believe Isner is hangin up the racket