The Spanish Carlos Alcaraz began the defense of his world number one in a Masters 1,000 with a victory in Paris-Bercy against the seasoned Japanese Yoshihito Nishioka (n.38), by a double 6-4 in 1 hour and 12 minutes.
With a black bandage on his left knee due to physical discomfort, the Murcian advanced to a round of 16 that allows him to consolidate his world number 1 at least until the end of the tournament. His compatriot Rafa Nadal could take it from him, but only in case he wins in Paris-Bercy and Alcaraz does not reach the quarterfinals.
The Spanish prodigy dominated a first round without too many surprises and marked by his good performance in the service, something essential on a hard court like Bercy.
In the second round, both players easily won their service -Alcaraz added 9 aces throughout the match- until the Spaniard broke the Japanese serve in the ninth game. With a 5-4 in favor, the number one did not forgive.
In statements at the foot of the track, the youngest world number one in history (19 years old) denied feeling psychological pressure to be at the top. “I don’t think about the pressure at all, it’s a dream to be where I am. All this motivates me », he referred.
“I’m trying to have my best level and I think I played a very good game today,” he added. EFE
