Alcaraz opens Toronto account with win

Carlos Alcaraz earned his first career victory in Canada on Wednesday, taking just 56 minutes to defeat American Ben Shelton 6-3, 7-6 (3) to reach the third round of the Toronto Masters.

The world No. 1 top seed admitted that he needed a wake-up call to ensure the victory over a fellow 20-year-old and son of a former ATP player.

Alcaraz improved to 48-4 on the season after winning his 13th consecutive Tour match dating to Queen’s Club and Wimbledon on grass.

He is preparing to defend his US Open title in New York starting on August 28.

“He was more aggressive than me from the start. I tried to be solid and find my rhythm but I had some trouble,” Alcaraz said.

“But I’m happy to be through to the next round. Matches like this help to focus.

“I have to play better from now on.”

Main photo:-Carlos Alcaraz

Bill Scott

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