Alcaraz and Sabalenka make winning start as Egypt’s Sherif stuns Kostyuk – Gulf Today

Alcaraz and Sabalenka make winning start as Egypt’s Sherif stuns Kostyuk – Gulf Today

Carlos Alcaraz returns to Alexander Shevchenko during their Madrid Open match on Friday. AFP

Defending Madrid Open champions Carlos Alcaraz and Aryna Sabalenka both triumphed in their opening clashes in the Spanish capital on Friday to reach the third round.

Alcaraz returned after a month out to begin his double defence with a convincing 6-2, 6-1 win over Alexander Shevchenko, while Sabalenka survived a tense three-set tussle against the in-form Magda Linette.

Men’s world number three Alcaraz shone on home clay after a forearm problem led to his withdrawals from the Monte Carlo Masters and Barcelona Open.

“It’s been quite a tough month for me, with the uncertainty over when I’d be back,” said Alcaraz.

“The priority today was to see how I felt, in a difficult match.

“The feelings were very good, and I think I played at a very good level despite coming without rhythm... I am very happy and it’s a pleasure to play here in Madrid again.”

Wearing a protective sleeve on his right arm, two-time Grand Slam winner Alcaraz quickly dispelled any doubts after his time out by flying out of the blocks in the first set with a break.

The 20-year-old Spaniard was as exciting as ever, frequently on the