Alcaraz overcomes Tsitsipas to secure French Open semi-final berth

PARIS: Carlos Alcaraz halted a mid-match fightback by ninth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas to secure a 6-3, 7-6(3), 6-4 win on Tuesday, setting up a blockbuster French Open semi-final with incoming world number one Jannik Sinner. The third seed, who came into the contest with a 5-0 record over Tsitsipas, dominated early on Court Philippe Chatrier, causing all kinds of problems for his Greek opponent with high kick serves to the backhand, and clinching the first set in just 33 minutes.

The rematch of last year’s quarter-final seemed destined for a similar outcome as Alcaraz broke Tsitsipas and held serve to take a 3-0 lead in the second set. Tsitsipas, struggling with an error-prone display, appeared down and out. However, the Greek star rallied after hitting a stinging forehand while down 4-2, working the crowd and drawing level by breaking back. Despite his efforts, Alcaraz elevated his play in the tiebreak, securing a crucial second-set victory.

The third set saw heightened tension as Tsitsipas grew frustrated, repeatedly complaining about Alcaraz’s delayed grunts and nearly hitting him with an overhead smash. Nonetheless, Alcaraz maintained his composure and closed out the match, reaching his second semi-final at Roland Garros.

This victory sets up an eagerly anticipated clash with Jannik Sinner, promising an exciting contest between two of tennis’s rising stars.