Aggressive Alcaraz motors in Madrid

Carlos Alcaraz began his delayed clay season on Friday after a month of arm injury recovery, with the Spaniard taking his first step towards a third consecutive trophy at the Madrid Masters.

The second seed dispatched Alexander Shevchenko 6-2, 6-1, taking just 68 minutes to win his first clay match since retiring injured in Rio two months ago.

The player who turns on May 5, moved into the third round and will face Brazil’s Thiago Seybold Wild.

Alcaraz admitted that while pleased with her victory, his right forearm problem  still plays upon his mind and has limited the intensity of his practice sessions..

“It is no trouble now, but I’m still thinking about it,” said the player who had to skip both the Monte Carlo Masters and last week’s Barcelona Open before getting onto the clay.

“It won’t leave my mind.

“I’m still not playing at 100 per cent on my forehand,

Alcaraz claimed his 12th victory in a row at the Caja Magica, last losing here in 2021 to mentor and idol Rafael Nadal.

The world No. 2 behind Jannik Sinner is hoping to become the first player in tournament history to win the three consecutive titles.

“I did pretty well today,” Alcaraz said. “Things were working well.

“I was trying to be aggressive with my backhand and go  to the net as soon as possible; it was a really good match.

“I’m happy with my level and glad to be competing.”