Carlos Alcaraz Falls, and Jannik Sinner Withdraws from Madrid Open

The Madrid Open has set the stage for a new champion to emerge this year. Andrey Rublev showcased his remarkable consistency and precision, prevailing over Carlos Alcaraz, who seemed to lose steam after the first set. Despite Alcaraz's efforts, Rublev's powerful serve proved too challenging to counter, leading to a 4-6, 6-3, 6-2 victory for the Russian.

Following the match, Alcaraz reflected on his performance, saying, “Today, I may not have been as mentally strong as I usually am. I found myself getting frustrated, especially when I failed to capitalize on opportunities. Facing someone like Rublev, who gives you few chances, can be tough. My own unforced errors cost me today, and that’s something I need to work on.”

Nonetheless, Rublev played an outstanding match and now awaits the winner of the Taylor Fritz versus Francisco Cerundolo match in the semifinals.

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Meanwhile, Italian tennis star Jannik Sinner withdrew from the tournament due to a hip injury. Sinner concluded his round of 16 match against Pavel Kotov (6-2, 7-5) late in the evening and faced a tough match against Karen Khachanov the next morning. Though Sinner won the match 5-7, 6-3, 6-3, the tight schedule and physical strain may have contributed to his decision to withdraw.

Sinner’s withdrawal sends Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime directly to the semifinals, where he will face the winner of the Daniil Medvedev vs. Jiri Lehecka match.

In the WTA tournament, Madison Keys will face world No. 1 Iga Swiatek in the semifinals. Keys advanced by defeating her compatriot Coco Gauff in a tight round of 16 match (7-6, 4-6, 6-4) and later triumphing over Tunisian Ons Jabeur (0-6, 7-5, 6-1).

In the other semifinal, Elena Rybakina will face Aryna Sabalenka for a spot in the final. Defending champion Sabalenka ended the run of young Russian talent Mirra Andreeva in the quarterfinals with a 6-1, 6-4 victory.

While the semifinals promise thrilling tennis, there's potential for a repeat of last year's final between Iga Swiatek and Aryna Sabalenka.